STURGIS, S.D. – Anyone interested in being the next Sturgis City Manager can now apply for the position.
The city opened the position Tuesday and will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. The city manager is the city’s top appointed executive and responsible for carrying out the policies and programs determined by the elected Sturgis City Council. The powers and duties of the city manager are defined by state and local law, and outlined in the city’s job description.
This position ensures city government operates and functions effectively to serve the needs of Sturgis residents, while complying with applicable laws and regulations.
Mayor Mark Carstensen said he is excited to finally have the position open.
“The ideal candidate will be a visionary, strategic and a high-energy leader who can work with the city council, staff and key stakeholders to help our community grow and improve the quality of life for our citizens,” Carstensen said.
Former Sturgis City Manager Daniel Ainslie left on April 6 to take a new job as Director of Finance for the City of Rapid City.
In the interim, the Sturgis City Council appointed a transition management team to fill the void. Members of the transition team include Carstensen, Sturgis Finance Director Fay Bueno, Sturgis Director of Administrative Services Lisa Katzenstein, Public Works Director Rick Bush, Police Chief Geody VanDewater, City Attorney Mark Marshall and Director of Communications Deb Holland.
Carstensen said he believes the transition team is working well, but that means of management can only sustain for a short period of time because team members are doing not only their own jobs, but also picking up the duties of the city manager.
“We can only do this for so long,” the mayor said.
The successful city manager candidate will have a master’s degree in Public Administration (or related educational field of study, although experience in lieu of education may be considered) as well as a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Business Management, Economics, Finance, or closely related field from an accredited university.
The council requires a minimum of 10 years progressive responsibility as a city manager/administrator or equivalent managerial position in an organization of comparable complexity.
The salary range is $130,000 to $150,000 with an annual performance bonus (up to 3%).
You can find the full job description and an application for the Sturgis City Manager job at: Official Website of the City of Sturgis, SD – City Manager (sturgis-sd.gov)
