City Administrator

The City of Gilroy is seeking a dynamic and accomplished executive to become its new City Administrator. The City Council is looking for a candidate who would be a good fit for the community, a strong collaborative leader for City staff, and a successful partner with City Council. This top professional is expected to have strong leadership skills, effective interpersonal and communication skills, and a strong passion for public service. The selected City Administrator will also need to have an inclusive management style combined with a hands-on approach to day-to-day operations to effectively lead Gilroy into the future. Additionally, a thorough understanding of community development, economic development, and finance is of high importance to the City Council. The ideal candidate will be a strategic visionary with an innovative mindset who can take a creative approach to solving problems and managing the long-term goals of the City.

The City of Gilroy has a Council-Administrator form of government. The Mayor is directly elected, and the Council members serve staggered four-year terms. Districts were recently established, and the 2026 election will be the first district-based election of Council Members, with the remaining districts and at-large Mayor elections in 2028. The Council appointed City Administrator is responsible for the financial and operational management of the City's 298 employees.

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Public Administration, Business Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, or a closely related field. In addition, a master's degree in public administration, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field of study is required. Recent experience as an assistant administrative head of a city of comparable or larger size, or as the head of such a city, with at least five (5) years of experience as the administrative head of a city, OR ten (10) years of experience as assistant administrative head.

Additional related work experience may, at the sole discretion of the City, be considered in lieu of the master's degree.

The City Council is prepared to offer a highly competitive salary for the region, consistent with recent practices; salary appointment will be made DOQE. The salary for the previous City Administrator was $324,707.

Interested candidates should apply by submitting a compelling cover letter, a comprehensive resume, and five professional references via email to apply@ralphandersen.com no later than Monday, November 10, 2025. This is a confidential recruitment process and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the recruitment. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Confidential inquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Fred Wilson, Ralph Andersen & Associates, at (916) 630-4900.