Strategic City Manager: Civic Leadership & Finance

City of Zeeland; Zeeland (MI); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Zeeland invites applications from experienced municipal professionals to serve as its next City Manager, reporting to the Mayor and City Council, providing leadership and oversight for city operations, personnel, financial administration, and community development.

The ideal candidate will combine strategic vision with practical management experience, leading across a broad range of municipal functions with a focus on fiscal stewardship, transparency, and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or related field.
• At least five years of progressively responsible municipal management experience.
• Thorough knowledge of municipal laws, ordinances, budgeting, public information, and administrative practices.
• Knowledge of municipal financial and personnel management, contract negotiation, economic development, and public relations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse programs and services, evaluate complex information, develop recommendations, and communicate effectively.
• A valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate City departments and municipal activities, promoting efficient operations, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Advise the City Council on policy, programs, ordinances, and operational matters; implement Council direction and provide timely information to support decisions.
• Oversee budget development, financial planning, budget administration, capital improvement programming, and evaluation of financing strategies for major projects.
• Lead the City’s workforce through recruitment, development, performance management, organizational planning, and personnel administration.
• Represent the City with residents, governmental agencies, community organizations, and partners as a professional spokesperson.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Public administration

Municipal finance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or related field

Job description

The City of Zeeland invites applications from experienced municipal professionals to serve as its next City Manager, reporting to the Mayor and City Council, providing leadership and oversight for city operations, personnel, financial administration, and community development.

The ideal candidate will combine strategic vision with practical management experience, leading across a broad range of municipal functions with a focus on fiscal stewardship, transparency, and community engagement.