About the Fellowship
The Local Government Management Fellowship (LGMF) is a highly competitive career-development opportunity that places fellows in full-time local government management-track positions shaped by direct mentorship under senior government leaders and rotational assignments. Talented professionals with a master's degree in public administration, management, public policy, public affairs, or related area, are given the opportunity to assume real responsibility, thrive in an environment that recognizes potential, and gain unique exposure to local government.
Host organizations provide:
Work Plan
The purpose of the work plan is to ensure an enriching professional learning experience for the fellow. They include a job description, along with details on fellowship goals, mentor assignments, fellowship structure, etc. Work plans should be prepared and submitted before a host community begins interviewing candidates.
Learn how to build a work plan »
Dedicated Mentor
For the duration of the fellowship, the mentor will serve as the primary point of contact and coach. The mentor should hold a senior-level position in the organization and should not be the fellow's direct day-to-day supervisor.
Watch videos about training your mentor »
Salary and Benefits
Hosts commit to provide fellows with a one-year, full-time competitive salary and benefits. Salaries vary based on several factors, including the cost of living in or around the host community.
Learn about sharing a fellow »
Travel Expenses
Fellows are required to attend the ICMA Annual Conference. There is no registration fee for fellows. However, hosts are expected to cover travel expenses. Hosts are also encouraged (but not required) to support travel and accommodation to at least one of the following events: ICMA Regional Conferences, NFBPA Annual FORUM, LGHN Biennial Conference, or state conference.
Learn about the ICMA Annual Conference »
ICMA provides:
Recruitment and Screening
The LGMF Advisory Board selects finalists based on academic performance, demonstrated leadership potential, commitment to public service, communication skills, initiative, creativity, and positive attitude. Host organizations then select fellows based on their specific needs.
Professional Development
Fellows are expected to participate in several scheduled professional development calls with ICMA throughout their fellowship. Along with access to ICMA’s free coaching resources, fellows receive complimentary registration to the ICMA Annual Conference and an ICMA Regional Conference during their first year.
Learn about the ICMA Coaching program »
ICMA Membership
Fellows receive a complimentary 2-year membership to ICMA with access to all qualifying member benefits. They are also granted free access to ICMA’s Applied Knowledge Assessment and a free subscription to PM Magazine.
