Salary: $220,000.00 - $260,000.00 Annually
Location : West Olive, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 18000001
Department: Administrator's Office
Opening Date: 07/14/2025
Closing Date: 8/11/2025 5:00 PM Eastern
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Job Description PLEASE NOTE: To be considered for this position, apply here: Please do not submit the application here, through governmentjobs.com. With a commitment to good governance, economic resilience, and service excellence, Ottawa County stands at a pivotal point in its leadership journey. The community is seeking a County Administrator who will help foster collaboration, stability, and accountability across departments, while continuing to build trust with residents and external partners. The next administrator will be expected to lead with integrity and independence, bringing clarity, strategic direction, and an apolitical collaborative spirit to the organization.
This is more than a leadership position-it is an opportunity to shape the long-term trajectory of one of Michigan's most respected and fastest, growing counties. The successful candidate will manage a dedicated team of professionals, work closely with an engaged Board of Commissioners, and represent the County in high-level conversations at the local, regional, state, and federal levels. Key priorities include organizational alignment, internal communications, long-term strategic planning, and transparent decision-making that supports the County's diverse residents and stakeholders, from lakeshore cities to rural townships.
If you are a dynamic, relationship-centered leader ready to guide a community into its next chapter, we invite you to explore this meaningful opportunity.
Essential Job Functions - The County Administrator shall be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the county ensuring statutory obligations are met, policies of the board are implemented and followed, and leading or coordinating all aspects of county governance in an apolitical unified manner.
- The County Administrator shall supervise the operation and performance of all County departments and department heads, except elected officials and their officers.
- The County Administrator, shall be responsible for the future direction of the County by developing a continuing strategic plan for the County and presenting it to the Board for approval.
- Submit to the Board an annual budget with a complete report on finances and activities. Maintains fiscal oversights of the county including administering and analyzing budgets. Leads and coordinates the planning of county infrastructure including facilities, capital outlay, budget, and critical long-range needs.
- Ensures that the Board of Commissioners is kept informed of County programs, financial status and legal, social and economic issues that may effect County operations and programs.
- Builds and maintains relationships with other governments, non-profits, and other entities to implement the county's strategic plan and address community needs.
- Promotes transparency with the public through various communication methods. Serves as a key point of contact for residents, ensuring transparency and responsiveness in government.
- Oversees and coordinates matters involving corporate counsel, seeks legal advice and opinions, and advises the Board on recommended actions. Develops policy as directed by the Board or as needed in conjunction with legal counsel. Directs labor negotiations and maintains positive labor relations.
- Represents the County and coordinates efforts with departments, elected officials, judges, local units of government, community leaders, state and federal officials on federal, state, county and community issues.
Required Education, Training and Experience Competitive candidates will have ten or more years of executive leadership experience. Masters degree is preferred.
Additional Requirements and Information Current and Future Opportunities: - Community Reconnection: Ottawa County is ready for a unifying leader who can help rebuild trust, reestablish collaborative relationships, and guide the organization through a healing and forward-looking process.
- Strengthening Board Governance: The next County Administrator will have the opportunity to work with the Board of Commissioners to improve collaboration, enhance training opportunities, and build strong governance practices.
- Strategic Budgeting: With a strong financial foundation, there is an opportunity to further refine budgeting practices, identify operational efficiencies, and ensure long-term fiscal health.
- Expanding Support for Arts and Culture: As community identity and placemaking become increasingly important, the County can enhance its role in supporting local arts and cultural initiatives.
- Sustainable Growth Management: With Ottawa County experiencing continued population growth, there is a strong opportunity to shape smart, sustainable development that aligns with community values.
- Organizational Strategic Planning: A refreshed county-wide strategic plan will serve as a roadmap for aligning vision, policy, and day-to-day operations across all departments.
- Broadband and Infrastructure Expansion: Improving digital access and infrastructure across rural and underserved areas will support economic development and quality of life.
- Veteran Services Momentum: Ottawa County has made meaningful strides in supporting veterans. There is strong momentum and public support to continue advancing these efforts.
Ottawa County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
County Administrator
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Thank you for your interest in the County Administrator position! To apply and be considered for this position, all applications will be accepted here: Please do not apply here, through governmentjobs.com.
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