The City of Kewanee, IL (pop. 12,509). The City of Kewanee is seeking a City Manager to join their dedicated leadership team. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead a community poised for progress where leadership and innovation are welcomed. This is a prime opportunity for a hands-on leader to introduce new ideas and guide the City through meaningful operational evolution. For the next City Manager, Kewanee offers the opportunity to serve a diverse, tight-knit community where many cultures and backgrounds come together to shape the City’s future. If you're energized by the opportunity to make an immediate and lasting impact, Kewanee is ready to welcome your leadership.

Located in northwest Illinois, Kewanee is known for its inclusive community, strong Midwestern values, and an increasingly ambitious approach to infrastructure improvement and service delivery. Kewanee is strategically located an equal distance from the Peoria and Quad Cities metro areas. Kewanee is home to Black Hawk College – East Campus, a municipal airport, and Amtrak Service. The Kewanee Park District is one of the largest in the state, and provides a full range of recreational opportunities, including the Oasis Family Aquatic Center. Kewanee is a resilient, close-knit community that blends history, industry, and hometown pride with an eye toward the future.

Kewanee was founded in 1854, and incorporated as the City of Kewanee on January 18, 1897. The City of Kewanee is a non-home rule unit that operates under the city manager form of government. The City Council is comprised of the Mayor and four Councilmen who are elected at large for four-year terms. The City Manager serves at the pleasure of the City Council. The City’s day-to-day operations are administered by the office of the City Manager. The annual General Fund budget for the City is approximately $10.8M, with a total budget of about $32.7M including all funds.

The City Manager oversees all departments, including community development, economic development, finance, fire, police, and public works and ensures policies are executed efficiently. The department head team includes the City Manager, City Clerk, Chief of Police, Fire Chief, Director of Finance, Director of Community Development, and Public Works Director. The City consists of a full-time staff of approximately 85 employees and 16 part-time/seasonal employees.

Key Responsibilities:
• Provides strategic leadership by assessing community needs and recommending programs, services, priorities, and economic development initiatives.
• Oversees day-to-day operations of all City departments, ensuring efficient, effective, and customer-focused service delivery in compliance with applicable laws and policies.
• Leads and manages staff, including recruitment, hiring, coaching, performance management, and overall organizational development.
• Manages the City’s finances by preparing and recommending the annual budget, monitoring fiscal performance, and planning for long-term financial stability.
• Builds strong relationships with residents, community organizations, school districts, and business leaders; responds to concerns and promotes a positive image of the City.
• Attends City Council meetings, provides professional recommendations, and implements Council direction.

Qualifications:
• A Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field is required. A Master of Public Administration is preferred.
• A background in economic development, planning, or community development is ideal.
• At least five (5) years of municipal government experience, including supervisory duties. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Must possess a valid Illinois Driver’s License or ability to obtain one.
• Residency within City limits is required within six months of appointment.

The Ideal Candidate:
The successful candidate will be a knowledgeable, approachable, and highly professional local government leader with exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills. They will bring a strong background in economic development and a proven ability to build and maintain partnerships with key community institutions, including park and school districts, county and regional agencies, and business organizations. The next City Manager will be visible and engaged in the community, actively participating in civic and service organizations, and will excel at bringing people together around shared goals for Kewanee’s future.

Compensation and Benefits:
The full salary range is $135,000 – $160,000 +/- DOQ. The City of Kewanee offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid vacation, sick, holiday time; contributions to medical, dental, vision insurance; a vehicle allowance; discounted YMCA membership; and Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund pension eligibility.

How to Apply:
Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume, cover letter and contact information for five professional references by January 19, 2026 for best consideration. This position is open until filled. Confidential inquiries may be directed to Ashley Eccles at 847-380-3240 x134.

The City of Kewanee is an Equal Opportunity Employer