Public Services Portfolio Manager

The Role

The City of Thomson is seeking an experienced municipal leader to serve as its next Public Services Portfolio Manager. Reporting directly to City Administrator Teresa

C. Smith, P.E., PMP, this position provides executive leadership for a broad portfolio of utility and public service operations while serving as a key member of the City's leadership team.

The portfolio includes water distribution, wastewater collection, natural gas operations, streets and rights-of-way, fleet management, solid waste services, and related municipal functions. The position is responsible for ensuring these services are delivered safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

Beyond daily operations, the Portfolio Manager will help establish departmental priorities, oversee capital improvements, develop operating and capital budgets, strengthen organizational performance, and mentor staff. The City is seeking a leader who combines sound operational judgment with strong financial management, communication, and leadership skills.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to improve internal processes, strengthen succession planning, and continue developing a high‑performing organization. Serving as Acting City Administrator in the City Administrator's absence further reflects the executive nature of this position.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape the future of the City's public services portfolio by strengthening long‑range planning, improving organizational alignment, and continuing to build a culture focused on accountability and customer service.

The Public Services Portfolio Manager will serve as one of the City's senior operational leaders and will work closely with the City Administrator on strategic initiatives, capital investments, and operational priorities. In addition to leading a diverse portfolio of municipal services, the successful candidate will serve as Acting City Manager during the City Administrator's absence, providing continuity of leadership and supporting effective local government.

The City seeks a collaborative leader with the technical knowledge, management experience, and interpersonal skills necessary to oversee a diverse municipal utilities portfolio. The ideal candidate will be an effective communicator, a sound decision‑maker, and a leader who develops employees while fostering accountability and teamwork.

Successful candidates will demonstrate experience in municipal operations, budgeting, capital planning, regulatory compliance, and organizational improvement. They should be comfortable working with elected officials, executive leadership, regulatory agencies, and the public while maintaining a strong commitment to customer service and responsible stewardship of public resources.

The City of Thomson offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with qualifications and experience. The anticipated hiring range is expected to be in the low $90,000s to low $100,000s, depending on the selected candidate's education, experience, and overall qualifications.