City Manager

Position Overview

The City of Stroud, Oklahoma, is seeking an experienced, steady, and forward‑thinking City Manager to serve as the City’s chief administrative officer. Stroud is a vibrant and growing community along historic Route 66, known for its strong civic partnerships, economic development opportunities, and commitment to transparent, accountable local government.

The City Manager reports directly to the City Council and oversees all municipal operations, implements Council policies, manages the annual budget, and ensures high‑quality delivery of public services.

The ideal candidate is a hands‑on, solutions‑oriented leader who values teamwork, communication, and long‑term planning. Stroud’s City Council is highly engaged and views governance as a collaborative partnership between elected officials and professional administration. The City Manager will work closely with the Council to support a shared vision for a well‑run, transparent, and continuously improving city organization.

This position offers the opportunity to build on recent progress in financial management, infrastructure planning, and organizational development — and to help guide Stroud into its next phase of growth and stability.

Preferred Qualification

Certified City Manager (ICMA‑CM or equivalent) preferred but not required.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary is competitive for the region and based on qualifications. The City of Stroud offers:

· Health, dental, and vision insurance

· Participation in the Oklahoma Municipal Retirement Fund (OkMRF) Define Contribution City Manager Plan

· Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Economic Growth Expectations

Stroud is actively pursuing new opportunities for economic development, job creation, housing expansion, and retail growth. The next City Manager must bring a positive, proactive attitude toward advancing the City’s economic potential. Desired qualities include:

· A strong interest in attracting new businesses, industries, and employers

· Support for expanding housing options to meet community needs

· A collaborative approach to retail recruitment and downtown vitality

· Ability to build relationships with developers, regional partners, and state agencies

· A forward‑looking mindset that embraces growth while protecting community character

The City Manager will play a key role in positioning Stroud for long‑term economic success.

Community Values: Patience & Compassion

Stroud takes pride in being a welcoming, community‑minded city. The next City Manager must demonstrate:

· Patience and compassion when working with citizens

· A genuine desire to listen, understand concerns, and help residents navigate city services

· Respectful, calm communication — even in challenging situations

· A commitment to treating every resident with dignity and fairness

Stroud wants a leader who not only manages the organization well but also cares deeply about the people who call Stroud home.

Job Description

Title: City Manager

Department: Administration
Status: Exempt

Summary

Under the general direction of the Mayor and City Council, the City Manager oversees daily operations of all city departments, supervises employees, manages the annual budget, and addresses complex issues with professionalism and diplomacy.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

· Oversee daily operations of all City departments

· Prepare or oversee agendas for City Council, Public Works Authority, Planning Commission, and other public meetings

· Implement and manage city programs, policies, and operational procedures

· Supervise and evaluate department directors and staff; promote transparency and accountability

· Coordinate activities across departments and support directors in problem‑solving

· Oversee hiring, training, discipline, and evaluations with support from Human Resources

· Represent the City to state, federal, county, regional, business, and civic organizations

· Respond to citizen concerns and service requests, ensuring timely follow‑up

· Prepare and present the annual operating budget; ensure financial activities remain within approved limits

· Implement City Council directives and policy decisions

· Develop and annually update the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)

· Meet with vendors, architects, attorneys, engineers, and others doing business with the City

· Perform administrative duties required by ordinance or directed by the City Council

· Carry out additional responsibilities necessary for effective city operations

Qualifications

· Municipal leadership experience

· Strong budgeting and financial management skills

· Experience in a council‑manager form of government

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead organizational change

· Ethical, transparent, calm under pressure, and committed to community service

· Certified City Manager preferred but not required

· Demonstrated patience, compassion, and respect for citizens

Challenges & Opportunities

Stroud is at an important stage of organizational and economic growth. Recent improvements in financial oversight, infrastructure planning, and operational accountability provide a strong foundation for the next City Manager. Key focus areas include:

· Long‑term financial and organizational sustainability

· Infrastructure and capital planning

· Economic development and business recruitment

· Housing and retail expansion

· Strengthening community partnerships

· Transparency and communication

Education & Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field

· At least 3 years of progressively responsible public‑sector administrative experience OR 5 years of executive‑level management experience

· Experience in budgeting, personnel management, contracts, purchasing, and public safety

· Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered

Communication Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to respond professionally to complex inquiries from citizens, agencies, and the business community.

Licenses & Certifications

· Valid Oklahoma driver’s license

· Willingness to participate in professional organizations and continuing education (OML, City Manager’s Association, ICMA, etc.)

Work Environment

Primarily office‑based, with occasional outdoor work. Evening, weekend, and after‑hours duties may be required for emergencies or meetings.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to sit and type for extended periods

· Ability to stand for long periods

· Ability to lift at least 25 pounds

Additional Information

The City of Stroud is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants must meet minimum qualifications to be considered. A criminal and personal background check will be conducted before employment is finalized.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and a resume with five work-related references and salary history to the Stroud City Manager, c/o Gayle Thornton P.O. Box 500, Stroud, Ok 74079 or email to gthornton@cityofstroud.org.

Pay: From $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person