Round one of Emporia’s search for a city manager is about to get underway.
On Friday, consultant Chuck Anderson will start reviewing applications for the job. So far, 32 people have applied.
“We had an excellent response,” said Anderson of the Dallas-based firm Waters-Oldani Executive Recruitment. “Much of it is due to the fact that Emporia has a history of being a well-run and well-managed city, within the city management profession.”
The stability of the city’s government helps, too, he said. Emporia’s previous city manager, Steve Commons, held the position for 20 years.
This first round allows Anderson to weed out the underqualified candidates, while noting those who meet or exceed the city’s requirements. In early January, the city commission will review Anderson’s list and narrow it down to eight to 10 possibilities. Of those, four to six finalists will eventually be chosen for an onsite job interview.
The city is offering a salary of $100,000 to $120,000 for its new chief executive. Candidates are expected to have at least 10 years of experience in public administration, a broad knowledge of city-related issues and at least a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration or a related field.
City officials have also said they are looking for a long-term leader with experience in commercial and industrial development.
There is no cutoff date to apply, Anderson said. He expected the process to move quickly, however.
Mayor Jim Kessler said a new city manager could be chosen by the end of January.