Williamsburg issues RFP for help finding next city manager
Proposals from executive search firms due April 14 as city launches nationwide recruitment effort
The City of Williamsburg has issued a formal request for proposals to hire an executive search firm to lead a nationwide search for its next City Manager, a position in which the appointed official serves as the city’s chief executive and administrative officer. Reporting to the City Council, the manager is responsible for directing daily city operations, implementing the Council’s policy goals, developing annual budgets and capital improvement plans, and ensuring the efficient delivery of community services across a workforce of approximately 230 employees.
The procurement documents outline both the qualifications the city expects of prospective city managers and the process by which it intends to find one. Candidates are expected to hold a master’s degree in public or business administration or a related field, along with substantial public sector management experience, such as prior service as a city manager or assistant city manager in a jurisdiction of comparable or greater size. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. The city also lists holding a Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association as preferred.
Beyond credentials, the city stated that it’s looking for a manager who models transparency, accountability, and trust, with strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to make decisions amid competing priorities. The successful candidate must establish residency within city limits, hold a valid Virginia driver’s license, and pass criminal background and drug screenings.
The selected search firm will be responsible for developing and publicizing a job announcement across traditional media, social media, and through direct outreach to prospective candidates. The firm must also design a structured process for evaluating applicants, assessing their communication skills, management competencies, and work products. The city requires that any firm submitting a proposal demonstrate extensive experience in local government executive recruitment, a proven track record of placing qualified candidates, and the ability to communicate effectively with an elected governing board.
Proposals are due by April 14, 2026, and will be evaluated on four criteria: project strategy and execution (weighted at 50 percent), relevant qualifications, experience, and references (30 percent), cost of services (10 percent), and financial and legal history (10 percent).
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