The Town of Cheshire invites qualified candidates who are committed to public service and enhancing the quality of life in our community to apply for an Assistant Town Manager position to fill an upcoming vacancy due to a retirement. Cheshire is a thriving and expanding community that is centrally located in CT, nearby to major interstates, highways, rail lines and attractions and within short distance from New York City and Boston. We have been ranked among the most desirable communities in Connecticut and was ranked #28 out of the best 50 places to live in the U.S. by Money Magazine in 2020. In addition, our public school system has been ranked the 9th best school district in Connecticut.

Position Title: Assistant Town Manager
Department: Town Manager’s Office
Classification: E-5

Position Objectives:
This is a highly responsible and independent management and administrative position for which knowledge of the functions of municipal government and the Town of Cheshire organization and its policies and procedures are essential. Trust, leadership, professionalism, judgement, motivation, interpersonal skills, and accuracy are critical.

May be directed to supervise various Town departments as assigned by the Town Manager. Reports to and coordinates with the Town Manager for short and long-term planning, budgeting, analyses, policies, procedures, project implementation, and personnel management for assigned departments, as well as for Town Council and other departments and divisions as needed.

Responsible for supporting the Town’s community engagement efforts, including but not limited to:
• Working with community organizations, nonprofits, and government officials to create and implement community programs and events.
• Acting as a media liaison to share information about community events and programs through various media including the Town’s website, social media, print publications and television broadcasts.
• Works to improve opportunities for residents and businesses to access community information and Town services, including centralized management of Freedom of Information Requests.

Serves as Acting Town Manager in the Town Manager’s absence.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to: Town Manager

Supervises: Departments as assigned by the Town Manager. Presently includes the Building Official, Director of Economic Development & Grants, Director of Human Services, Library Director, Town Planner; staff responsible for social media and communications. Also responsible for administrative oversight of staff in the Town Clerk and Registrars of Voters offices.

Job Location and Equipment Used:

Primary location is Cheshire Town Hall. Employee may have to travel to other Town buildings or out of town locations. Position entails use of computer, mobile phone, copier/scanner and other office and technical equipment.

Essential Functions:

1. Ensures department goals appropriately reflect the goals of the organization and the Town Manager, and assists in providing departments with the tools, policies, and support necessary to meet those goals.

2. Works with department heads on budgets, policies and procedures, project management, operations and personnel, resolution of issues, and compliance with Town Charter and Code of Ordinances, Town policies, State statutes including the Freedom of Information Act, and other applicable laws and regulations.

3. Responsible for the coordination of Town functions among the reporting departments and their divisions within the organization.

4. Provides general supervision to the Management Specialist in the preparation and distribution of Town Council agendas, meeting follow ups, and materials and information requests for Council.

5. Special assignments on temporary committees or task forces, and staffing of Town Council Committees as required.

6. Serves as the Town’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) liaison, providing guidance to all departments and divisions.

7. Manages and supervises staff who update website content, post on social media, and broadcast meetings online, ensuring that messages are coordinated and that the content represents the overall responsibilities, programs and services of all Town departments accurately and appropriately. Originates, or edits and approves, information distributed to the press, the public, Town officials, or staff for consistency and accuracy.

The above duties describe the most significant duties performed and are not to be considered a detailed description of every duty of the position. Other related duties may be assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Master’s degree or candidacy for a Master’s degree in Public Administration or similar field preferred. A minimum of six years of increasingly responsible experience in municipal government operations and administration. Experience with project management, budget development, communications, information technology services, and dealing with the public, and an understanding of municipal government required. A combination of training and experience which provides the same knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered. Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency and crisis situations is essential. The ability to maintain confidentiality is critical. Must have excellent research and analytical skills; the ability to communicate clearly, professionally and effectively both in writing and orally; and strong interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Proficiency in current administrative, industry, and proprietary software used by the Town is desired. Must have the ability to adapt quickly to changes in policy, the environment, new software and technology, and stakeholders.