Position is open until filled.First Review Deadline: 5 p.m. | Friday | January 24, 2025Job Posting Podcast - Listen HereRECRUITMENT BROCHURETHE CITY MANAGER WE'RE LOOKING FOR:The next City Manager of Columbia Falls will be a strategic leader, an innovative problem-solver, and a dedicated public servant. They will bring a proven track record of leadership, collaboration, and community engagement, combined with the skills needed to manage a dynamic and growing city. The ideal candidate will reflect the following qualifications and attributes:Education and Experience
- A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master's degree in Public Administration (MPA) or a related field is strongly preferred.
- At least 7 years of progressively responsible leadership experience, such as city management, military leadership, or other senior public service roles. Extensive relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a formal degree.
- A history of successfully leading municipal operations, including budgeting, grant management, and infrastructure development.
- Experience addressing housing, growth, and land use challenges, ideally in a small-to-medium-sized community.
Key Competencies
- Visionary Leadership: A strategic thinker capable of setting long-term goals while managing day-to-day operations effectively.
- Community Engagement: A natural collaborator who listens to residents and works to build strong relationships with all stakeholders.
- Team Development: A leader who empowers department heads and staff to take ownership of their roles, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
- Problem-Solving Expertise: An adaptable and creative problem-solver who can address complex issues like housing affordability, growth management, and public infrastructure needs.
- Clear Communication: Strong skills in public speaking, report writing, and interpersonal communication to connect with diverse audiences, from council members to citizens.
- Ethics and Integrity: A commitment to transparency, fairness, and the highest standards of public service.
Preferred Attributes
- While candidates may live outside city limits within a reasonable response time, the City would strongly prefer the manager to reside within Columbia Falls to be fully immersed in the community and its culture.
- Experience in small communities balancing growth while preserving local character.
- A track record of fostering partnerships with regional and state agencies.
- A commitment to collaboration, ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued.
HOW YOU FIT HEREThe City Manager of Columbia Falls serves as the Chief Executive Officer of this vibrant and growing community, bringing visionary leadership to a city defined by its natural beauty, collaborative governance, and engaged citizens. This is a rare opportunity to make a profound impact while advancing your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.The RoleAs City Manager, you will oversee the city's daily operations, ensuring efficient and effective administration of all departments. Working directly with the Mayor and City Council, you'll act as a trusted advisor and strategic partner in shaping the city's future. Your responsibilities will include implementing council policies, managing a dedicated team of department heads, and representing Columbia Falls in regional collaborations and intergovernmental partnerships.The position demands a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership. You'll lead initiatives ranging from infrastructure development to housing solutions, navigate state legislative changes like SB0382, and foster relationships with a range of stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and neighboring jurisdictions. With the city poised for growth, your ability to prioritize and deliver impactful projects will be instrumental.Your Unique FitThis role is ideal for a dynamic leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a proven track record in public administration. You bring financial acumen, having managed budgets, grants, and long-term financial strategies. Your experience with land use planning, housing challenges, and infrastructure projects will enable you to address the city's priorities effectively.You'll also be a community builder, someone who values transparent communication and understands the importance of engaging with residents, businesses, and regional partners. If you are a decisive yet approachable leader, Columbia Falls is the perfect platform for your skills and vision.Why Columbia Falls?The city offers an unparalleled quality of life, nestled at the gateway to Glacier National Park and just minutes from Whitefish Mountain Resort. As a leader here, you'll work with an experienced Mayor and City Council that values innovation, empowerment, and collaboration. The supportive governance culture ensures you'll have the tools and autonomy to succeed.Faxed and mailed submissions will not be considered.For more information on this position contact:Michael Boese, President[email protected]972-###-####