If your municipality is searching for a new manager, you’ll want to keep an eye out for candidates who have the necessary skills and attributes to be successful.
The position of manager can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Those who serve as a municipal manager – either for boroughs or townships – can have a profound impact on their community and provide a better quality of life for residents. The rewards of this role are significant, making it a highly inspiring and motivating career path.
So just what does it take to be efficacious in this leadership position?
To begin with, understanding local government operations, policies, and procedures is crucial. Successful managers need to combine their local knowledge with an understanding of Pennsylvania's specific laws and regulations governing municipalities. It’s also important that managers have strong leadership skills, with the ability to lead and motivate township staff, collaborate with elected officials, and facilitate community engagement and participation. They must have strong written and verbal communication skills to interact with residents, staff, elected officials, and other stakeholders. This includes the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
A strong and capable municipal manager doesn’t need to be a whiz at math but they do need to be competent and effective in budgeting, financial planning, and grant management to effectively manage municipal finances and resources. They must also be able to meet the day-to-day requirements of analyzing issues, developing solutions, and making decisions that align with township goals and priorities. This includes overseeing and coordinating infrastructure improvement projects, community development initiatives, and public services. These responsibilities also require managers to understand legal requirements and compliance issues relevant to municipal operations, including zoning laws, land use regulations, and personnel policies.
Speaking of personnel issues, municipal managers need to build relationships, negotiate effectively, and handle conflicts diplomatically. These skills will also assist in fostering community involvement, conducting public meetings, and most importantly, promoting transparency and accountability. This commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in maintaining the ethical standards of township management.
Lastly, today's township manager must be comfortable with using technology for administrative tasks, data management, and communication purposes.
These skills collectively contribute to effective municipal management and leadership, ensuring efficient operations and positive outcomes for residents and stakeholders alike.
If your municipality needs a manager or just someone to lead in the interim, contact the team at KMS. Let us show you how professionals can make a huge difference in your municipal operation.ur community!
About the Author
David L. Anthony is a member of the Keystone Municipal Solutions team of experts. He is a veteran of municipal government, having served more than 33 years in various positions of public service. Contact him at david@keystonemunicipalsolutions.com. To learn more about David and the Keystone Municipal Solutions team, click here.
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