Purpose
City Manager’s Emerging Leaders Academy Cohort IV
Team Savannah, are you ready for more? Have you been wondering how to become competitive for leadership roles in the city and|or considered how to grow as a leader in your current role? The City Manager’s Emerging Leaders academy invites citywide employees to apply to be a member of the CMELA Cohort IV 2025.
Eligibility
- Employed with the City of Savannah one full calendar year.
- Hold any role up to and including Manager | Lieutenant | Advanced Fire Fighter.
Application Process
Step 1: April 1, 2025 thru April 30, 2025:
Complete: Online application available under promotional openings.
Attach: Letter of Recommendation from Supervisor & 2 others, Current Resume
Answer: 3 Questions
Write: 1 Paragraph Essay
Step 2: May 12, 2025 thru May 23, 2025
Complete a Spark Hire Interview.
Step 3: June 30, 2025
Citywide announcement of Cohort IV, Class of 2025 is sent from CM’s Office.
Essential Job Functions
Learning Outcomes:
Employees Will Be Able To
- Identify personal professional leadership values, styles, and priorities
- Understand and apply the competencies of leadership in:
- Managing and leading teams
- Developing and achieving individual and strategic goals
- Understanding City of Savannah policies and procedures
- Communicating effectively internally and externally
- Managing projects and programs
- Leading change
- Interviewing and applying for supervisory and leadership positions
- Budget and operational processes
- Develop and present powerful presentations regarding program improvement
Minimum Qualifications
Eligibility Requirements:
- Employed with the City of Savannah one full year.
- Supervisor recommendation and approval.
- Hold a position of Manager|Advanced Firefighter|Lieutenant or below.
CMELA Completion Requirements
- Attend 80% of all sessions.
- Attend opening session and graduation.
- Active participation in class activities.
- Mentor meetings at least once a month from September thru December.
- Complete and present capstone project.
- Attend 1 Council meeting (virtual or in person) and submit attendance.
Selections will be announced June 30, 2025
Program Requirements For Those Selected
Program Dates 2025:
Program Kick-Off Friday, August 22nd, 2025 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Session 1 Friday, August 29th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 2 Friday, September 5th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 3 Friday, September 12th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 4 Friday, September 19th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 5 Friday, September 26th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 6 Friday, October 10th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 7 Friday, October 17th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 8 Friday, October 24th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 9 Friday, November 7th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 10 Friday, November 14th, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Session 11** Friday, November 21st, 2025 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Graduation Friday, December 12th, 2025 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Questions? Email:jblalock@savannahga.gov
This position is not eligible for any benefits from the City of Savannah at this time.
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