CITY MANAGER

The City of National City is looking for a new City Manager. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and market comparability, and is subject to negotiation and approval by the City Council. To be Considered : This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Candidates are encouraged to apply immediately, with the recruitment closing on September 15, 2025. Electronic submittals are strongly preferred via email to [email protected] , and should include a compelling cover letter, comprehensive resume, and five professional references. Ralph Andersen & Associates will work in concert with the City to conduct the initial evaluation of submitted materials to determine the best overall match with the established criteria as outlined in this recruitment profile. Confidential inquiries welcomed to Mr. Fred Wilson, Ralph Andersen & Associates, at (916) 630-4900. THE CITY: National City’s multi-cultural population, mild climate and central location make National City a great place to live and work. The City takes great pride in its rich history and traditions, diverse cultures, dynamic and progressive atmosphere, strong community spirit, schools, neighborhoods and vibrant business districts. National City, San Diego County’s second oldest city, is truly “In the center of it all.” National City is 10 minutes from everywhere and positioned for prosperity, with proximity to the San Diego Bay, US-Mexico border, downtown San Diego, international airport, rail, San Diego State University, and other colleges and universities. National City is circled by interstates 5 and 805, and highways 54 and 15. For more information on the City of National City, please visit our website at: www.nationalcityca.gov Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis and will be reviewed as they are submitted. Applicants are encouraged to submit applications early. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline. THE JOB: Subject to general legislative direction of policy, to administer the activities of the city government as prescribed by ordinance and in accordance with the policies of the City Council; and perform related duties as required. The following duties and responsibilities are representative of those typically performed by positions assigned to this classification. Any single position may not perform all of these duties and/or may perform similar related tasks not listed here. Enforces and administers the provisions of laws and ordinances; plans, coordinates, and provides overall direction of the work of all City departments; prepares recommendations and advises the City Council on matters requiring legislative action and on all important matters relating to City affairs; prepares original drafts and recommends ordinances, resolutions, and contracts; institutes programs and policy changes as directed by the City Council; reviews material from various departments being submitted for City Council action to determine its completeness and readiness; plans work programs and proposes an annual budget providing for the balancing of revenues and expenditures; develops a capital improvement program; administers approved programs and budgets; counsels with and advises commissions and boards; conducts special studies designed to increase the efficiency and economy of municipal operations; represents the City in a variety of meetings and public functions; coordinates the general activities of the City government with other governmental agencies, private groups, and citizens in solving a variety of problems dealing with intergovernmental activity or local situations; determines and prepares recommendation needs of the City, both with City Hall and in the entire City; approves personnel, purchasing, and general fiscal actions. TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination equivalent to training and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be: a bachelor's degree in public administration from an accredited college or university; extensive responsible administrative experience in the planning, coordination, and financing of varied municipal activities. KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS IN : Management theory and practice; municipal organization and procedures; and laws, rules, and regulations concerning the operation of municipal government. ABILITY TO : Plan and enforce a balanced budget; plan, direct, and coordinate a varied work program; supervise and delegate authorities and responsibilities; meet with citizens' groups and organizations and analyze and resolve complaints or make recommendations on requests for services; establish and maintain effective working relations with the community at large, the City Council, subordinate officials and employees, and public officials of other jurisdictions. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. Submit your application early! A comparative review and evaluation of all applications will be conducted by a screening committee. Those candidates possessing the most desirable qualifications will be invited to participate in an appraisal interview. To apply for this exciting career opportunity, all applicants must submit a City application, cover letter, and resume via email to [email protected] Applicants possessing the most desirable qualifications will be invited to participate in the selection process, which may include an oral interview and/or other assessments designed to predict successful job performance. The City of National City is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any class protected by law.