Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) Ryan Bernal leads the PBSO Financial Services Bureau, which includes the Accounting, Budget, Internal Controls/Financial Reporting, and Payroll Divisions.

CAO Bernal is an active member of Leadership Florida, the Government Finance Officers Association (formerly serving on the Special Review Committee), the Florida Sheriff’s Association, and the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (currently serving on the Technical Resources Committee and formerly its Chairman).

CAO Bernal holds a BA in Criminal Justice, a Master’s in Accounting, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Florida Atlantic University. He also holds several professional licenses and certifications, including Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO), Certified Government Audit Professional (CGAP), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Additionally, he is a member of Leadership Florida’s Connect Class X and the FGFOA’s Leadership Class II.

CAO Bernal is married to his wife Chelsea who share three daughters and a son.