The Position
The City of Bainbridge Island, Washington is seeking a dynamic, community-oriented leader to serve as its next City Manager. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-performing organization in one of the Seattle metropolitan area’s most distinctive and civically engaged communities. Bainbridge Islanders care deeply about environmental stewardship, thoughtful land use, and the long-term health of their community. The City Manager will join the organization at a pivotal moment, guiding the City through the implementation of critical planning updates, navigating complex affordable housing initiatives, and strengthening public trust during a period of spirited community discourse.
The City Manager serves as the Chief Executive Officer, appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the seven-member City Council. The City Manager directs the operations and activities of the City, translating Council policy into action while ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of municipal services. Furthermore, they provide comprehensive management and leadership to ensure services and infrastructure are delivered in an equitable, sustainable, and effective manner. The City Manager leads and supports a diverse staff of 141 full-time equivalent employees in further developing an outstanding organizational culture that supports excellence, continuous improvement, and a high degree of customer service. Direct reports include the Deputy City Manager, City Attorney, and most Department Directors.
The City Manager develops short and long-term goals, plans, and measurements to implement the priorities and directives of the City Council. They actively engage with the Council, senior leadership, and staff to review and evaluate organizational initiatives, and to facilitate strategies that proactively address issues, resolve problems, and promote organizational effectiveness. The City Manager attends all Council meetings, provides reports and recommendations, and keeps the Council well-informed on matters affecting the City. They routinely advise the Council on the City's financial condition and needs, prepare and submit the biennial budget, and administer the adopted budget with prudent fiscal stewardship.
The City Manager maintains positive public relations, engages with the community, and effectively represents Bainbridge Island to outside agencies and intergovernmental partners. The City Manager builds and nurtures strong collaborative relationships with the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District, the Bainbridge Island Fire District, Citizen Advisory Groups, and other community partners. They maintain an active and visible presence in the community, attend events, meet with local businesses and community organizations, and serve as a public face of City government. In addition to managing external relationships, the City Manager leads the executive team in fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and high-performing organizational culture where staff feel valued, supported, and empowered.
Above all, the City Manager is drawn to Bainbridge Island not as a stepping-stone, but as a community they are genuinely excited to serve, invest in, and call home.
Qualifications
Ten years of progressively responsible experience in municipal government, including at least seven years of administrative or leadership responsibility, is required. A successful track record as a City Manager or Deputy/Assistant City Manager is strongly preferred. An exceptional ability to develop effective relationships with a history of working closely with a Mayor and City Council is essential. Prior experience in land use, planning, development, and affordable housing is ideal. A sound financial background with a strong understanding of budgets and financial management is required. Preference will be given to candidates who share Bainbridge Island’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and resilience.
A bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, public policy, finance, or a similar field is required. A master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a closely related field is desired. An equivalent combination of experience and education that enables success as the City Manager will be considered. The City Manager will embrace life as an active member of the Bainbridge Island community, including establishing residency within the City.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background.
Compensation and Benefits
The City Manager’s total compensation is at the discretion of the City Council and will be determined based on the successful candidate’s qualifications. For a complete overview of the City’s extensive benefits, review the detailed summary here.
The new City Manager is required to establish residency on Bainbridge Island, with housing and/or relocation assistance offered as part of the new incumbent’s employment agreement.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. A first review of applications will begin on May 4, 2026, and early applications are highly encouraged.
