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
If needed.
Questions? Email:jblalock@savannahga.gov
This position is not eligible for any benefits from the City of Savannah at this time.
01
Are you a City of Savannah employee?
Yes
No
Required Question
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Other
Industries
Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at City of Savannah by 2x
