Strategic Projects Lead, Government Operations

Gila, County of (AZ); Globe, Payson (AZ, AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Gila County is seeking a senior professional to lead complex, high-priority projects for the Deputy County Manager. You will independently research, analyze, and develop recommendations across departments and partners, coordinating resources and deadlines to drive executive decisions.

You will serve as a primary liaison, manage cross‑department initiatives, and produce executive‑level written work. A strong background in public administration, project management, and governance is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, finance, economics, political science, urban or regional planning, organizational management, or a related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in government operations, management or program analysis, project management, organizational development, grants, economic or community development, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Independently leads complex executive projects, special assignments, and organizational initiatives from problem definition through completion.
• Develops project objectives, scopes, work plans, schedules, deliverables, performance measures, and implementation strategies.
• Coordinates required resources, monitors progress, resolves cross-departmental barriers, and presents results to executive leadership.
• Performs extensive research and management analysis on emerging, sensitive, or complex County issues; identifies trends and risks.
• Develops alternative solutions; considers options, risks and benefits; prepares recommendations for executive decision‑making.
• Serves as the Deputy County Manager's primary project liaison; coordinates with directors, offices, staff, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Coordinates development of concepts and recommendations; assists in advancing approved opportunities.
• Prepares executive-level written work products and translates complex information into actionable recommendations.
• Provides executive project and organizational support, including meetings, materials, and tracking commitments.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Critical thinking

Time management

Negotiation

Communication

Problem solving

Project planning and management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public/business administration or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Project management software

Job description

Gila County is seeking a senior professional to lead complex, high-priority projects for the Deputy County Manager. You will independently research, analyze, and develop recommendations across departments and partners, coordinating resources and deadlines to drive executive decisions.

You will serve as a primary liaison, manage cross‑department initiatives, and produce executive‑level written work. A strong background in public administration, project management, and governance is essential.