County Manager

We are seeking a collaborative, strategic County Manager with strong financial acumen, sound judgment, and exceptional communication skills. This leader will support a talented, dedicated workforce, nurture a positive, transparent workplace culture, and guide departments in advancing the Board of County Commissioners’ strategic priorities.

The ideal candidate builds genuine relationships with County leadership, elected officials, community partners, and residents. Decisive yet approachable, this individual listens well, navigates change with confidence, and understands both the opportunities and the complexities of serving a growing, diverse, rural-resort county.

Above all, our next County Manager must be committed to earning public trust and delivering effective, responsible government for the people of La Plata County.

Potential for relocation expense reimbursement, temporary housing allowance and severance benefit.

Please view our online brochure.

The County Manager, serving at the pleasure of the Board of County Commissioners, is the primary administrative officer for the county and the liaison between the board, county department directors, and the County’s elected officials. The County Manager is responsible for implementing the board’s policy direction to the county staff, managing the day-to-day operations of the county, and coordinating the flow of information and advice to the board.

The County Manager manages and coordinates county resources, priorities, and the strategic vision of the Board.

Essential functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position‑specific tasks. Reasonable accommodations, as defined under the American with Disabilities Act, will be made when possible.

• Responsibly handles the supervisory and operational day-to-day operations of the County.
• Faithfully and promptly implements all Board-approved policies and direction, ensuring Board actions are carried out efficiently and in adherence to the La Plata County Leadership Practices and Policies.
• Explains and interprets policy; assists the Board in establishing annual goals; monitors operations and productivity of County functions and services.
• Oversees and ensures the County's adherence to all state and federal statutory requirements and respects the Board's authority as the County's final policy-making body, remaining neutral once decisions are made.
• Monitors and coordinates with County Department Heads on Board-approved projects, programs, and contracts, and regularly keeps the Board apprised of progress and any challenges on a periodic basis.

• Keeps the Board informed of shifting trends, public sentiment, and emerging issues that impact policy or operations.
• Attends and participates in Board meetings; directs preparation of commission meeting agendas; provides staff support and research and develops and recommends policies and procedures for Board consideration.
• Informs the board of pertinent items on the agenda which require their particular attention and concern; provides background data on important matters coming before the board.
• Provides timely and complete Board reports — background, options, financial and operational impacts, risks and benefits, and staff recommendations — so the Board can make fully informed policy decisions.
• Responds promptly to Commissioner requests and proactively keeps the Board…