Assistant City Manager

The City of Tomball is seeking an Assistant City Manager with a forward thinking approach, effective leadership and reflects our core values of Professionalism, Integrity and Respect. The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration, organizational development, and effective leadership.

• Understands local government structures, functions, and legislation. Familiarity with city legal guidelines, regulatory measures, and relevant operational standards.

• Oversees fiscal planning, ensures financial accountability, and manages resources efficiently.

• Insight into the roles and workings of different city departments. Effective communication, resolving disagreements, and managing departmental projects. Steering through intra-departmental dynamics, nurturing teamwork, and connecting departments.

• Identifying key community players, techniques for public communication, and understanding cultural nuances. Addressing the public, attentive listening, and forging connections.

• Strategies for effective crisis coordination, protocols for urgent situations, and recovering from major disruptions. Staying composed in high-pressure situations and motivating teams to respond efficiently in emergency situations.

THE POSITION

As a senior leader in our City’s executive team, the Assistant City Manager will have the opportunity to shape the future of our community, drive innovative initiatives, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our residents. This role blends strategic vision with hands-on leadership, allowing this individual to work closely with elected officials, department heads, and community partners to turn big ideas into meaningful results. Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Development – Partner with the City Manager to shape and execute the City’s strategic and operational plans. • Executive Oversight – Serve as a key link between the City Council, City Manager, and department directors, providing leadership to ensure efficiency and alignment with City priorities. • Policy Development – Collaborate on the development, refinement, and implementation of policies that meet the needs of the City. • Financial Stewardship – Oversee the budget process, funding strategies, and procurement compliance. Guide department directors on funding approaches, review financial reports, approve transactions, and support improvement initiatives.• Community & Stakeholder Engagement – Build strong partnerships with residents, businesses, and organizations. Review contracts, seek cost-saving opportunities, and lead grant application efforts.

• Interdepartmental Collaboration – Foster cooperation across departments to advance shared goals and streamline operations.• Regulatory Compliance – Help ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal laws, as well as City ordinances and directives.

• All-Hands Contribution – Step in where needed to support the City’s mission and priorities.

OPPORTUNITIES

First 12-Month Goals

Establish Strong Leadership Foundations – Apply proven public administration, organizational development, and leadership practices to set a clear vision and inspire department teams.

Strengthen Fiscal Stewardship – Oversee fiscal planning, ensure financial accountability, and optimize resource allocation to support strategic priorities.

Enhance Departmental Coordination – Build effective communication channels across departments, resolve conflicts quickly, and guide major projects to completion.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 6-8 years as a Department Head in a comparable/large organization required.

Strong background in municipal finance or equivalent experience preferred.

Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration, organizational development, and effective leadership.

Experience with municipal audits, capital improvement plan management, budgeting and finance functions required.

Effective communicator and thought leader, skilled with the ability to cultivate teamwork and resolve conflicts.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Business Administration or a closely related field is required. Master's degree preferred.

Preferred certifications: ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM), Certified Public Manager (CPM) or similar.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The City of Tomball offers an annual salary range of $169,998 to $212,493 based on qualifications and experience, with a very competitive benefits package that includes:

TMRS at 7% with 2-to-1 match by City upon retirement Medical insurance, with HSA City contribution for family up to $3,400 per yearDental and vision insuranceLife insuranceFlexible Spending AccountCell Phone and Vehicle AllowancePaid vacation, sick leave and 11 holidays

APPLICATION PROCESS

The position is open until filled. The first review of applications will occur in September 2026, so highly qualified applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early. For additional information on this position or questions regarding the application process, contact:

Kristie Lewis, HR Director

[email protected]

(281) 290-1012

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 6-8 years as a Department Head in a comparable/large orgnization required.
•  Strong background in municipal finance background or equivalent experience preferred.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration, organizational development, and effective leadership.
• Experience with municipal audits, capital improvement plan management, budgeting and finance functions required.
• Effective communicator and thought leader, skilled with the ability to cultivate teamwork and resolve conflicts.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Business Administration or a closely related field is required. Master's degree preferred.
• Preferred certifications: ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM), Certified Public Manager (CPM) or similar.