Wadena County, MN – County Administrator

About the Position

Are you a strategic, collaborative, and service-driven public-sector leader who can unify teams, strengthen operations, and guide organizational progress? If so, consider becoming Wadena County’s next County Administrator.

The County is seeking an exceptional leader who is:

• A strong communicator able to navigate complex issues with clarity and integrity
• Experienced in county or local government operations, budgeting, and personnel management
• Skilled at building trust, leading change, and aligning departments around shared priorities

The County includes the cities of Wadena, Menahga, Sebeka, Verndale, Aldrich, Nimrod, and a portion of Staples. Located in central Minnesota, with a population of 14,135, the County is within easy reach of larger regional hubs while maintaining its peaceful small-town environment.

Wadena County operates under a five-member County Board. The County Administrator is appointed by and reports directly to the Board. The ideal candidate is an experienced, ethical, and forward-thinking public-sector leader who understands the unique dynamics of rural county government. They bring strong knowledge of Minnesota statutes, county operations, budgeting, personnel management, and organizational development.

Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business, or related field
• At least three years of government-related experience with supervisory duties
• Experience managing departmental operations, budgets, and personnel
• Valid Minnesota Driver’s License

Preferred qualifications include:

• County government (MN preferred)
• Advanced degree in Public Administration or related field
• Experience with rural county operations, zoning, economic development, and Data Practices compliance
• Experience leading organizational change and working with elected officials
• Residency Expectation: The selected candidate should reside within a reasonable commuting distance of Wadena County, though residency within the county itself is not required

The salary range for this position is $140,000 – $160,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

For more information, contact:

Michael J. Czymbor, Senior Vice President

[email protected]

(843) 368-6659