Local Government Employees
Local Government Employees
Every City Manager has a different story and professional background. Some city managers have worked in government for many years, while others have worked in the private sector. One way to start your path to becoming a city manager is to start working or volunteering for a local municipality. Get to know how a local government works and all the responsibilities of a city manager. City managers are passionate about public service and many are committed to a Code of Ethics. It’s a tough job, but you’ll be rewarded by making your community a better place to live for all residents.
The Oregon City/County Management Association and the International City/County Management Association have many resources for professional opportunities and education! There’s a lot to learn about running a city, but no one starts out knowing everything. Here are a couple resources to learn more about city management and local government professions:
Northwest Women's Leadership Academy: This program is a 9-month leadership and professional development cohort that aims to advance women in local government leadership positions. The program provides mentoring and professional support to women in local government.
OCCMA's Senior Advisor Program: The Senior Advisors are a resource for future, current, or potential city managers.
Additional resources include:
Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL): ELGL is a professional association that hosts free webinars, cohort programs, and a leadership certificate program.
Dan Huff, City Manager of Molalla, OR:
You will learn a lot on the job! You will learn just as much from the things that don’t work well as those that do.
Zoe Mombert, Assistant to the City Manager of Wilsonville, OR:
Conduct an informational interview with your city manager or someone in a similar city. Informational interviews are excellent ways to learn more about real-life experiences of city managers.
Rachael Fuller, Assistant County Administrator, Washington County
For getting started in the profession: Start anywhere in city government! In small cities, you get to know every department and will be part of everything.
For new city managers: Don't be afraid to ask for help or ideas from other city managers.
Heidi Bell, City Manager of Sheridan, OR:
Your elected officials will bring different skill sets to the city. They care about the community and want to be involved in making it a great place to live, so they are your resource to keep your priorities on track.
Andy Varner, City Manager of North Plains, OR:
It's easy to focus on basic service delivery, but it's important to think long-term to keep the heart of what you have to do and keep perspective on what the city has to provide to the community. It's helpful to go over the city's budget with your newly elected officials so they know the upcoming priorities.
Scott Derickson, City of Woodburn Administrator:
You have to always work to build relationships and effectively communicate with a broad range of people. Being a city manager is challenging, but it is a very rewarding profession. You will make a difference in your community, help others advance in life and their careers, and help people accomplish the things that are important to their communities.