Business Administrator

The City Business Administrator serves as the Chief Financial Officer of the municipal government, acting as a strategic liaison between elected officials and city departments. This role is central to citywide leadership, fiscal stewardship, and operational excellence, ensuring that all services are delivered efficiently and effectively. The Administrator drives strategic planning, budget management, labor relations and business operations, while fostering community relationships and implementing initiatives that enhance the quality of life for the residents of the City of York.

Essential Functions:

Core Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership, Compliance and Governance

• Oversee daily operations of all city departments and bureaus.
• Coordinate and implement policies set by elected officials.
• Act as a liaison between the Mayor, City Council, and departmental leadership.
• Compliance with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Third Class City Code and the Mayor-Council form of government is essential for governance and legal compliance.
• Lead crisis management and emergency response efforts.
• Represent the City on boards and authorities, including pension and redevelopment entities.

Financial Management and Business Operations

• Develop and manage the City’s annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with strategic priorities.
• Monitor financial performance, implement corrective actions, and maintain compliance with municipal codes and state regulations.
• Oversee cash flow, debt service, pension administration, and long-term financial planning.
• Administer a centralized purchasing system and enforce internal controls for all financial transactions.
• Prepare financial reports, forecasts, and presentations for City Council meetings.

Labor Relations

• Serve as the chief labor negotiator for the City, managing collective bargaining agreements (CBA’s) with five (5) unions. Collaborating with the City Solicitor/HR to align with CBAs and legal strategy.
• Develop negotiation strategies that align with fiscal goals and maintain positive labor-management relationships.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws and contractual obligations.

Human Resources and Organizational Development

• Oversee hiring, training, and performance management of city personnel.
• Establish and supervise standardized personnel policies and practices.
• Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Supervision of Bureaus/Offices

• Bureau of Information Technology
• Bureau of Finance
• Bureau of Parking
• Office of Human Resources
• Office of Grants & Special Projects
• White Rose Community Television

Technology and Data-Driven Decision Making

• Supervise the Bureau of Information Technology to ensure secure, efficient systems supporting financial and operational processes.
• Champion ERP systems, financial analytics, and digital tools for real-time reporting and transparency.

Community Engagement, Service and Development

• Facilitate community development initiatives and sustainability programs.
• Address residents’ concerns and requests promptly and professionally.
• Build partnerships with other government agencies and stakeholders.
• Participation in community boards/agencies expected
• Other duties as assigned by the Mayor.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Qualifications and Skills
Education

• Master’s degree in public administration, Business Administration, Finance, or related field preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required.

Preferences

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO)
• Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)
• Senior Professional in Human Resources/Society for Human Resource Management -Senior Certified Professional (SPHR/SHRM-SCP)
• Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

Experience

• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in municipal government or equivalent, including financial management, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• At least five (5) years in a senior executive role, with supervisory experience.

Technical & Leadership Skills

• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling, ERP systems, and data analytics.
• Strong knowledge of governmental accounting standards, rating agency methodologies, and risk management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and navigate complex issues effectively.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Financial Planning
• Budget Development & Oversight
• Procurement & Contract Management
• Technology Integration & Process Optimization
• Stakeholder Engagement & Governance

Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience:

Other Necessary Requirements

• Residency Requirement: In accordance with Article 121 “Administration Generally” of the Codified Ordinances of The City of York, Section 121.03 Department Heads (b): A department head does not need to reside within the City at the time of appointment by the Mayor. However, within 120 days of appointment, the individual must establish residency within the City of York and maintain residency for the duration of their tenure.
• Pre-Employment Clearances:
  • Must successfully pass a background check
  • Provide three (3) professional references
  • Must successfully pass a drug screening
  • Must successfully complete a credit check (to verify financial responsibility)
  • Must obtain a Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, dated within one year of application, indicating that “no record exists".
• Licensing & Driving Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid Class C Operator’s License issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
  • Maintain an acceptable driving record in accordance with City policy
  • Provide proof of current automobile insurance as required by l