Brian Sjothun

Brian Sjothun was appointed as Medford’s City Manager in September 2016 after serving 12 years as the city’s Parks and Recreation Director. With a strong background in public administration, he has led innovative government programs, performance management initiatives, leadership training, and strategic planning, including the 2021-23 Council Biennial Goals and Medford 2040 Community Vision and Action Plan.

A certified John Maxwell Leadership coach, Brian has trained over 100 City employees. He is active in professional associations such as the Oregon City County Management Association, Oregon Parks & Recreation Association, and Medford Rogue Rotary Board.

Brian has managed over $120 million in capital projects, including the largest municipal FieldTurf installation in the U.S. at Lithia & Driveway Fields, which has generated over $120 million in economic impact. He is currently overseeing the Rogue Credit Union Community Complex, set to open in summer 2023.

In 2005, he helped launch the Medford Parks and Recreation Foundation, securing over $1 million in property donations, $750,000 for park development, and nearly $200,000 for youth scholarships. Before Medford, he spent 16 years with the Woodburn Recreation & Parks Department, including eight years as recreation services director.

A Portland native, Brian earned his bachelor’s from Warner Pacific College and a master’s in public administration from Golden Gate University in 2002.