This position requires a master’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field, plus at least three (3) years of experience as an assistant city manager, city manager, or general government administrator; or, a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field, plus at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public administration, at least three (3) of which involved in city management or general government administration. Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered. A valid Texas driver’s license is required.
The City of Heath is a premiere lakeside community that’s rural by design. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the natural beauty of the lake, quiet scenic areas, and views of the Dallas skyline that provide a serene backdrop for beautiful neighborhoods and distinctive homes. The City, which was incorporated in 1949, is located about 20 minutes east of downtown Dallas and the 2024 population is estimated to be 10,363 people. The City of Heath is a home-rule city with a council-manager type “A” form of government and seven City Council Members including the Mayor. The City Manager is appointed and/or confirmed by the governing body. The City of Heath has 71 employees and a total fiscal year budget of $35.9 million.
The City Manager of Heath serves as the Chief Administration Officer of the City. Reporting to the City Council, this role involves planning, organizing, and directing the operations of the City. The City Manager administers policies established by the City Council and by law; develops and implements administrative procedures; coordinates and directs all Departments and staff operations; and selects, develops, and effectively utilizes staff. They have overall supervision of projects, city financing, and intergovernmental relationships. The Assistant City Manager, City Secretary, executive staff, and Department directors report to the City Manager, who also has overall responsibility for all City staff. The City Manager works closely with the City Council, policy and advisory boards, committees appointed by the Council, and the general public. They interact with other city managers, statewide organizations and associations, representatives of governmental agencies at state and federal levels, and news organizations.
The City of Heath seeks a strong leader with emotional intelligence, as well as experience working for a small, growing city. The ideal candidate is someone who understands smart growth management with experience in staff development. A track record of success with employee engagement and retention is highly desired, as is experience working in a premier city. The chosen City Manager will be a relationship builder and excellent communicator. They will be creative, yet data driven with strong analytical capabilities. Someone who understands the role of serving at the pleasure of City Council, but who is not afraid to speak up about what is best for all citizens, is preferred.