The City seeks a City Manager who understands small-town life and values. The next City Manager should be professional, knowledgeable, and experienced in local government. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication and listening skills, have strong leadership and personnel management skills, be knowledgeable in financial management of local government, and work well with the governing body, department heads, employees, and citizens to get things done. The City seeks a person who is grounded in high ethical standards and leads with transparency and openness.
Named one of the top 20 “best small towns to visit” by Smithsonian Magazine, Abilene is a Chisholm Trail Cowtown and hometown of the 34th President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. The rich history of Abilene dates from the pioneer cattle days when great herds of longhorns were driven overland from Texas to Abilene. This small town boasts one of the largest attractions in the state, the popular Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Additional local attractions along with arts and cultural events draw 250,000 annual visitors to Abilene.
Situated in the heart of Kansas, Abilene retains the historic character of a small Midwestern town and boasts a thriving economy and cultural amenities making it a top tourist attraction in Kansas. Abilene is strategically located along Interstate I-70 and is the county seat of Dickinson County.
This growing community of more than 6,300 residents is noteworthy for its flourishing economy, national attractions and tourism, exceptional and moderately-priced housing, family-friendly neighborhoods, and civic spirit.
The City Commission consists of five members who are elected at-large by the citizens of Abilene on a rotating cycle. The City Commission selects one of their own to serve as Mayor for a one-year term. The City’s annual general fund budget for 2020 was $6,255,598. The current City Manager was promoted to the position two years ago and has announced her retirement for March 2021. Abilene provides a full range of services with Administration, City Clerk/Human Resources, Finance, Code and Inspection, Planning and Zoning, Convention and Visitors Bureau/Tourism, Airport, Fire, Police, Parks and Recreation, Senior Center, Public Works, Water and Sewer Utilities, and Recycling. The City’s workforce is comprised of 63 full-time and 20 part-time employees.
Successful candidates should organize resume around the minimum and preferred qualifications:
Minimum qualifications: 1) Three to five years of experience in local government as a City Manager/Administrator, an Assistant City Manager/Administrator, or senior-level public administrator with budget and supervisory responsibilities; 2) Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, or related field from an accredited university; 3) Evidence of a stable employment history and progressive career advancement; and 4) An unblemished record of leading with integrity.
Preferred qualifications: 1) Master’s degree in public administration or related field, or additional management experience; 2) Professional experience in a small to mid-sized community; 3) Experience in planning and community building, personnel management, and/or government finance a plus; 4) ICMA (International City and County Management Association) membership.
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