Annapolis, MD – City Manager

About the Position

Are you a collaborative, politically astute executive who can lead complex municipal operations while partnering closely with an elected Mayor? If so, apply to be the City of Annapolis’s next City Manager. The City is seeking an experienced public-sector leader who brings:

• Disciplined execution
• Strong organizational leadership
• Exceptional communication skills to a highly visible environment

The City of Annapolis, Maryland, is the state capital and a nationally recognized waterfront community with a rich history, vibrant tourism economy, and strong civic identity. Known for its colonial heritage, walkable historic downtown, and maritime culture, Annapolis blends tradition with modern municipal services and regional influence.

Annapolis operates under a Mayor–Council form of government with a shared executive structure. The Mayor is elected citywide and serves as the City’s chief elected official, while the City Manager functions as the chief administrative officer and organizational leader. Success in this structure requires a disciplined partnership between the Mayor and City Manager, clear role alignment, and consistent communication with Council.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned municipal executive with demonstrated success operating in a politically complex environment. They bring a collaborative leadership style, disciplined execution habits, and the ability to establish trust with elected officials, staff, and the community.

Required qualifications for this position include:

• Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a closely related field
• Three years as a City Manager or Assistant/Deputy City Manager or equivalent local government and executive experience
• Demonstrated experience working effectively with elected officials in a complex governance structure

Preferred qualifications for this position include:

• ICMA membership and credentialed manager attainment
• Experience in coastal, historic, or tourism-driven communities
• Proven labor relations and collective bargaining experience
• Track record of organizational modernization and performance management

The salary range for this position is $250,000-$294,000 DOE/DOQ.

For more information on this position, contact:

Clay J. Pearson, Senior Vice President

[email protected]

713-816-8639