Job Posting: City Manager, Radford, Virginia
Position Type: Full‐time, Permanent
Experience required: Minimum of 5‐7 years of municipal government experience with progressively increasing responsibilities.
Experience as a manager/administrator with government budgeting, enterprise funds, and significant financial responsibilities is preferred. Experience in the Commonwealth of Virginia is preferred.
About the City:
Radford, Virginia is a vibrant, growing small city that prides itself on its strong community connections, beautiful parks, and its role as home to Radford University, a mid‐sized, regional university.
We offer a unique blend of small‐town charm with dynamic opportunities that drive innovation and culture, world‐class manufacturing, and unique personal experiences. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are looking for a skilled and dedicated City Manager to lead the city administration in delivering efficient, responsive, and sustainable services to our community.
To learn more about the City of Radford please visit our website: www.radfordva.gov.
Job Summary:
The City Manager will be the chief executive officer of the City of Radford responsible for managing day‐to‐day operations, implementing city policies, and providing leadership to the City Council, staff, and citizens. This role will involve overseeing all city departments, with specific emphasis on managing enterprise funds such as water and electricity. The City Manager will be an integral part of fostering a collaborative environment with key stakeholders, including the University, local businesses, and community organizations.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Administration:
Oversee the overall management of city operations, including day‐to‐day activities, budgeting, planning, and long‐term strategic goals.
Provide direct supervision to department heads and collaborate with the City Council on city policies, programs, and projects.
Ensure the effective delivery of city services that meet the needs of all citizens, businesses, and the university community.
Enterprise Fund Management:
Manage and monitor the City's enterprise funds, particularly those for water, electricity, and other essential utilities, ensuring they are sustainable and financially stable.
Work with all utility departments to optimize resource management, system upgrades, and operational efficiencies.
Lead efforts to balance cost recovery, service quality, and long‐term financial health of water and electricity services.
Fiscal Responsibility:
Prepare and administer the city budget, with a focus on maintaining financial stability, ensuring proper allocation of resources, and identifying cost‐saving opportunities.
Communicate with complete transparency the budgeting and revenue process to elected officials, citizens and staff.
Develop and oversee the implementation of revenue‐generating strategies while maintaining the affordability and sustainability of city services.
Strategic Planning:
Collaborate with the City Council on long‐term strategic initiatives that align with the City’s goals, including economic development, infrastructure improvement, tourism, citizen quality of life, and mutually advantageous partnerships with Radford University as well as other regional partners.
Develop and implement plans for growth, resource allocation, and capital improvement projects.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure that the City’s operations are compliant with state and federal regulations, including environmental standards and utility management requirements.
Community Relations:
Act as a liaison between the City and the community, including residents, businesses, and university stakeholders, ensuring open communication and addressing concerns.
Promote transparency, inclusivity, and public engagement in city projects and policies.
Collaboration with the University:
Foster strong relationships with Radford University, exploring opportunities for recruitment and collaboration on research, community development, and promote student and faculty engagement with the City.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
A minimum of 5‐7 years of experience in municipal government or public administration with progressively increasing responsibilities. Must have a strong background in managing enterprise funds (water, electricity, utilities). Experience as a manager/administrator is preferred. Experience in the Commonwealth of Virginia is preferred.
Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budgeting, financial forecasting, and cost control for enterprise services.
Proven leadership skills, including the ability to manage diverse teams and collaborate effectively with elected officials, community stakeholders, and external partners.
Strong communication and public relations skills, with the ability to engage and build relationships with residents, businesses, and the University.
Knowledge of municipal law, policies, and best practices in utility management and city governance.
Successful candidate must establish full time residency in city limits within 180 days of start of work.
Compensation and Benefits:
Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision insurance, Virginia Retirement System contributions, paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities.
The City intends to enter into an Employee Agreement with the successful candidate.
Relocation assistance, if applicable.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a completed City of Radford employment application that includes references along with a resume and a cover letter to Dawn Diamond, Director of Human Resources, 10 Robertson Street, Radford, VA, 24141.
Applications will be accepted until close of business day April 7, 2025. Applications can be obtained on the City of Radford website.
Radford is an equal‐opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in helping shape the future of Radford and contribute to the continued success of our vibrant community!
