Surfside City Administrator

Final date to receive applications: 5 p.m. | Friday | January 30, 2026

RECRUITMENT BROCHURE

The City Administrator serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Village of Surfside Beach and is responsible for managing the daily operations of the municipal government. Appointed by a majority vote of the Mayor and City Council for a defined contractual term, the City Administrator ensures that all policies, directives, and strategic priorities established by the Mayor and City Council are implemented efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the community’s goals.

As the Village’s top executive leader, the City Administrator provides comprehensive leadership, direction, and coordination across all municipal departments, programs, and services. The role requires strong organizational and management capabilities, particularly given Surfside Beach’s unique seasonal population fluctuations - rising from approximately 625 year-round residents to thousands of people during peak season. The Administrator must effectively balance routine municipal operations with the expanded demands of peak tourism seasons.

The City Administrator oversees financial operations, personnel management, departmental performance, intergovernmental relations, and community partnerships to ensure high-quality service delivery for residents, visitors, and local businesses. This position reports directly to, and serves at the pleasure of, the Mayor and City Council.

• A minimum of 10 years of service in a local municipality – preferably management roles and with significant financial management responsibilities.
• Must possess excellent and strong municipal financial, budgeting background.
• Able to attend all City Council meetings and City sponsored events.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check and able to be bonded.
• Must have a Public Funds Investment Officer certification, or able to obtain within one (1) year of employment.
• Must have Public Information Act and Open Meetings Act training certificate, or able to obtain within six (6) months of employment.

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or other related fields is preferred.

• Knowledge of general management principles, including municipal finance, budgeting, operations, and human resources.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, citizens, and stakeholders through written, verbal, and public presentations.
• Ability to lead, motivate, develop, and effectively utilize city staff while organizing departments and managing workloads efficiently.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assimilate information, draw sound conclusions, and make objective, ethical decisions in the best interest of the City.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and timelines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to identify and respond to community and City Council needs, concerns, and emerging issues.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as partners in the private sector.

Kelly Kuenstler, Vice President

Clear Career Professionals

Ext. #6

Brad Stafford, Vice President

Clear Career Professionals, LLC

Ext. #712