Lead a Growing Community as Our Next City Administrator - Washington, Illinois

Are you an approachable, collaborative, and diplomatic leader ready to make a long-term commitment to our community?
The City of Washington invites experienced municipal professionals to step into a collaborative role where team building, communications, staff development, strategic planning, and municipal finance skillsets define success.

Why Washington?
Radiating with small-town charm and forward momentum, the City of Washington (pop. 17,000) is more than a community. It is a place where neighbors invest in each other, and leaders build for the future. Known for its highly rated schools, thriving parks system, and strong economy, Washington has become a magnet for families and businesses alike. Conveniently located in Central Illinois between St. Louis and Chicago, our city blends historic character with modern growth. This is a community that shows up for each other and welcomes leaders who are ready to do the same.

The Opportunity: City Administrator
This is a rare opportunity to guide a full-service municipality at a pivotal moment in its growth. With a $36 million operating budget, a $68 million five-year capital improvement plan, and approximately 75 dedicated employees, Washington is positioned for collaborative leadership. The City operates under a Council form of government with a strong tradition of professional administration and teamwork.
As City Administrator, you will not only oversee day-to-day operations and implement Council policy but also shape the strategic vision that drives Washington forward. With new development opportunities, robust infrastructure investments, and a thriving local economy, Washington is primed for a leader who excels at collaboration, clear communication, and results. This is your chance to make a lasting impact in a community that values innovation, accountability, and shared success.

Your Leadership Style: Committed. Diplomatic. Approachable.
We are seeking a leader who:
• Inspires teams with positivity, confidence, and clear vision
• Collaborates with the team to define and lead people to accomplish goals through shared values
• Thinks big, acts responsibly, and communicates with influence
• Moves seamlessly between strategic vision and tactical execution
• Builds trust through transparency, responsiveness, and diplomacy
If you enjoy collaborating with others, empowering the leadership team, and strategically planning for the future—you’ll thrive in Washington.

Key Responsibilities Include:
- Serve as the CAO of the City, overseeing departments, operations, and performance outcomes
- Implement strategic goals in collaboration with the Mayor and City Council
- Champion economic development, fiscal sustainability, and staff development
- Lead multi-disciplinary departments in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment
- Maintain a high-performance culture through servant leadership

Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Political Science, Law, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
- A minimum of 7 years of progressive executive municipal leadership experience
- A combination of education and experience will be considered
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and team building capabilities
- ICMA-CM is preferred
- Successful candidates will be required to reside within the City of Washington corporate limits
- Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply
Compensation + Benefits:
The salary range for this position is $160,000 to $180,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a City vehicle, health insurance, retirement, paid leave, professional development support, and relocation assistance.