Salary Range: $125,000-$141,000 (DOQ)
Located on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan in northern Door County, the Village of Sister Bay (population 1,200 year-round and several thousand in the summer) seeks a skilled and dynamic professional to serve as its next Village Administrator. As Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the Village Administrator is responsible for day-to-day operations and policy implementation. This position reports to a seven-member Village Board, and provides leadership to staff, manages municipal services, and ensures the effective and efficient delivery of high-quality programs to the community. The Administrator manages department supervisors and provides leadership to all full-time and part-time employees, and serves as the Zoning Administrator and Human Resources Manager.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Administrator directs and coordinates all Village operations, including but not limited to:
- Act as Zoning Administrator: review land use applications, serve as staff representative to the Plan Commission, monitor compliance with permits and development agreements.
- Implement policies and directives of the Village Board and report challenges or progress.
- Provide leadership and support to department supervisors and staff, working collaboratively to address operational needs.
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the Village, including compliance with ordinances, resolutions, policies, statutes, administrative codes, and Board decisions.
- In partnership with the Village Treasurer/Financial Specialist, prepare and administer the annual operating budget and Capital Improvement Plan in compliance with statutory requirements.
- Manage Village investments, financial policies, grant applications and administration, and recommend strategies to ensure fiscal stability.
- Serve as Human Resources Manager: advertise vacancies, coordinate hiring processes, oversee discipline/termination, and manage employee relations. Work with consultants as needed to administer employee benefits and develop cost-effective programs.
- Manage procurement processes: prepare RFPs, review bids, make recommendations, and oversee contracts in coordination with the Village Attorney.
- Develop administrative procedures and best practices to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
- Monitor state, federal, and county legislation impacting the Village, represent the Village in intergovernmental relations.
- Maintain clear, open communication with residents and businesses. Respond to concerns promptly, and in a positive, collaborative manner.
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will be an approachable and collaborative leader with strong financial acumen, planning and zoning knowledge, and proven experience in organizational management. They will bring demonstrated expertise in municipal finance, including budget development, capital improvement planning, and long-term fiscal management, along with a solid background in human resources, organizational development, and community planning. The ideal Administrator will be a strategic thinker and effective project manager, skilled at balancing priorities, analyzing options, and guiding complex initiatives. Equally important, this individual will possess exceptional communication and relationship-building skills to engage productively with the Board, staff, residents, and community partners. While capable of making decisive choices when necessary, the next Administrator will lead with integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to teamwork—ensuring that Sister Bay continues to thrive as a safe, welcoming, and well-managed community.
Excellent benefits package includes:
- Comprehensive insurance, benefits, and paid time-off program.
- Enrollment in Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, or public policy preferred; Bachelor’s degree is required.
- Minimum of three years of experience in public sector management.
- ICMA Credentialed Manager certification (or ability to obtain) is preferred.
How to Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com. Please direct questions to 262-355-6102.