Welcome to the City of Willard, Missouri (population 6,350), a growing, family‑oriented community located just northwest of Springfield. As a 4th‑class city operating under the Mayor–Board of Aldermen–City Administrator form of government, Willard manages a $9 million annual budget and a dedicated team of approximately 75 employees. City services include police, municipal court, planning and zoning, economic development, parks and recreation, public works, buildings, streets, water, and sewer.

The City of Willard is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and forward‑thinking City Administrator to help guide the community through its next phase of responsible growth. This leader will play a central role in strengthening infrastructure, supporting economic development, and building strong, trust‑based relationships with residents, staff, and elected officials.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership — Provide clear, proactive guidance to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen; ensure transparent communication and well‑informed decision‑making.
Responsible Growth Management — Lead planning efforts that balance development with community character, fiscal sustainability, and long‑term infrastructure needs.
Budget & Financial Oversight — Prepare and manage the annual budget; oversee municipal finance, accounting, and capital planning.
Infrastructure & Public Works — Direct public works operations; plan and execute infrastructure improvements that support future growth.
Community Engagement — Foster open communication with residents; build trust through accessibility, responsiveness, and consistent follow‑through.
Organizational Leadership — Support, mentor, and develop staff; cultivate a culture of accountability, service, and teamwork.
Economic Development — Collaborate with local partners to attract investment, support local businesses, and strengthen Willard’s economic future.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
Equivalent combinations of education and professional municipal experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Three or more years of progressively responsible municipal government experience.
Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, municipal finance, and public works operations.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public.

The Ideal Candidate

The City of Willard is seeking a leader who is:

Approachable and collaborative, able to build strong relationships with residents and the Board.
Forward‑thinking, with the ability to anticipate infrastructure needs and guide responsible growth.
Organized and strategic, capable of managing complex projects and long‑term planning.
Professional and transparent, committed to open communication and ethical leadership.
Solution‑oriented, focused on outcomes that strengthen the community and organization.

This individual will set the tone for a culture of service, accountability, and continuous improvement—leading by example and empowering staff to deliver high‑quality municipal services.

Key Challenges & Opportunities

Managing responsible growth while preserving community character.
Planning and delivering infrastructure improvements that support future development.
Strengthening community trust through transparency and engagement.
Enhancing organizational alignment and supporting staff development.
Advancing economic development and unlocking Willard’s next phase of opportunity.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $100,000 – $125,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

The City of Willard offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

Fully funded employee medical insurance
Fully funded LAGERS retirement (L‑6)
Fully funded life insurance
Optional dental and vision coverage
Optional short‑term and long‑term disability (STD/LTD)
Optional MASA emergency transport coverage
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
13 Paid federal holidays, 3 personal days, vacation, and sick leave

City of Willard

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City Administrator - Willard, MO