Chippewa County, Wisconsin (Pop. 67,801) seeks a proven leader to serve as its next County Administrator. Located in beautiful west central Wisconsin, Chippewa County offers the best of both worlds: a small-town quality of life, within minutes of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and a ninety-minute drive to Minneapolis. Chippewa County’s many peaceful communities offer a variety of housing options, quality schools, growing businesses and job opportunities. Chippewa County boasts year-round recreational activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on its many rivers and streams. Thousands of acres of parks and public land are available for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and hunting, with trails for snowmobiling and ATVs. The County’s total land area of 1,041 square miles is organized into five cities, four villages, and 23 towns. The County seat is Chippewa Falls (population 14,985). Learn more about Chippewa County by visiting its website.

The County Administrator is the County’s chief administrative officer and carries out the duties and responsibilities set forth in Section 59.18 of the Wisconsin Statutes. The Administrator is appointed by and reports to a 21-member nonpartisan Board of Supervisors. A $124 M general fund expense budget supports approximately 425 full-time equivalent positions.
Immediate priorities for the new County Administrator include recruiting and retaining quality employees in a challenging labor market and maintaining quality services in light of strict statutory levy limits. A proven track record of engaging and developing employees and maintaining a positive workplace culture is critical.

Desire a strong finance background including a sound knowledge of budget development and capital improvement planning. The successful candidate will possess exceptional strategic planning and project management skills. The County seeks a collaborative leader, an approachable teambuilder who can be decisive when necessary. The ability to foster cooperation through open and positive communication is essential.
The salary range for this position is $150,000 to $170,000 DOQ, plus excellent benefits.
Requires a Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, finance, or a related field. Significant experience in the administration of a complex organization with a minimum of four years in upper-level management is required, as well as a thorough knowledge of local government. A combination of education and experience may be substituted for a specific degree major. Preferred credentials are a Master’s degree in a related field. Private sector and military candidates who have led comparably sized, complex organizations are encouraged to apply.

Email cover letter, résumé, three professional references and salary history as a single PDF to Jon Hochkammer, Public Administration Associates, LLC at jonhochkammer@gmail.com. Include Chippewa County, WI Administrator Search in the subject line. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mr. Hochkammer at (608) 225-3024. The deadline for applications is January 27, 2025.

Confidentiality must be requested but cannot be provided for those selected as final candidates.
Chippewa County is an equal opportunity employer.