City Manager (Full-Time)

SUMMARY: The City Manager is the chief administrative officer for the City of Safford, responsible for implementing Council’s policies and strategic direction, leading city operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and delivering exceptional public service in a council–manager form of government.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Strategic Leadership & Council Relations

• Operate effectively within the council–manager framework; support Council’s goals, priorities, and strategic direction.
• Provide clear, concise information and objective policy recommendations.
• Maintain transparency; keep Council informed on expenditures and major initiatives.

Budget & Finance

• Ensure responsible stewardship of public funds and fiscal transparency.
• Lead municipal budgeting, long-term financial planning, and Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Collaborate with the Finance Officer and Department Heads to present a fiscally responsible budget.
• Manage grant funding, revenue analysis, and financial policy development; present complex finance topics clearly to Council and the public.
• Uphold strong finance practices and awareness of legislative/regulatory impacts.

Organizational Leadership

• Lead Department Heads and staff with integrity, respect, and accountability; set clear goals, delegate effectively, and ensure performance expectations.
• Promote employee engagement, development, and retention; recognize employee accomplishments.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and organizational policies while fostering a positive, service-oriented workplace culture.
• Guide change thoughtfully and inclusively.

Community & Intergovernmental Relations

• Engage constructively with residents, businesses, schools, and community organizations; be approachable and relatable to everyday people.
• Represent the city professionally in media relations and crisis communication.
• Build productive partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions, school districts, and other agencies, advocate for Safford in county, state, and federal forums.
• Prioritize the interests and well-being of Safford residents in all decision-making processes.

Innovation & Major Achievements

• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate creative problem-solving and forward-looking strategic planning.
• Show a record of measurable results achieved while maintaining staff engagement.

Compliance, Risk & Emergency Management

• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Oversee Emergency Management & Public Safety coordination and organizational risk management.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Experience, Certifications and Licenses:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Management, Organizational Leadership, or a related field is required; a master’s or doctoral degree is preferred.
• Progressive leadership experience in municipal or public-sector administration.
• Experience as a City Manager, Assistant/Deputy City Manager, or senior Department Director required.
• ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM) or completion of leadership/management coursework required.
• Experience managing large, multidisciplinary teams and/or leading a business or complex organization required.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong understanding of municipal finance, budgeting, and accounting principles.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Skilled in labor relations, negotiating/administering labor agreements, and workforce development.
• Effective communicator; able to explain complex issues clearly to Council, staff, and the public.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and confidently to diverse audiences, including City Council, staff, community members, and media.
• Skilled in preparing and delivering professional presentations for public meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to engage, inform, and build trust.
• Comfortable speaking in high-pressure or crisis situations while maintaining composure and professionalism.
• Ability to build trust and maintain positive relationships with staff, Council, and the community.
• Honorable, ethical, and credible; demonstrates integrity.
• Approachable, respectful, and committed to listening to staff and community.
• Forward-thinking, open to change; not afraid to bring forth different ideas.
• Genuine commitment to public service and the long-term success of the City of Safford.
• Knowledge of economic development strategies and practices, including business attraction, retention, and community growth initiatives.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS & CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Primarily office environment with occasional outdoor work.
• Frequent sitting, standing, and walking.
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs.
• Regular use of standard office equipment including computers, phones, and printers.
• Occasional attendance at evening or weekend meetings.
• Ability to travel locally and regionally as needed.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions during site visits.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and via electronic devices.

City Manager Recruitment Brochure

EOE

Job Details