Say It Straight: Why Authentic Communication Is Government’s Strongest Asset

About The Role The City of Seattle is seeking a collaborative superintendent to lead Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR). Appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council, the Superintendent is the highest executive authority responsible for planning, operations, and finances. SPR manages over 1,100 employees and a 6,441-acre park system with nearly 500 parks, community centers, pools, golf courses, and environmental education centers. The role requires guiding equitable stewardship of land, resources, and people while managing a 2026 operating budget of $258.6M and a capital budget of $85.3M. Key Responsibilities - Lead Seattle Parks and Recreation by aligning operations and investments with city policy goals and regulatory compliance. - Meet the needs of a changing community through strategic planning, keeping community centers as welcoming and affordable hubs. - Promote racial and social equity by analyzing program data for equitable outcomes and ensuring facility distribution is based on access and opportunity. - Ensure safety, cleanliness, and accessibility by maintaining and improving aging infrastructure to reduce maintenance backlogs. - Excel in service delivery by establishing high customer service standards and supporting employee development. - Engage and develop staff by fostering an inclusive culture, managing employees within a union environment, and handling personnel actions. - Develop valued partners by collaborating with community stakeholders, schools, developers, and funding partners. - Champion inclusive and accountable governance through rigorous fiscal management and transparent, performance-based reporting. Minimum Qualifications - Senior leadership experience and extensive professional knowledge in administering urban parks and recreational programs. - Extensive management experience, exceptional communication skills, political savvy, and sensitivity to competing stakeholder needs. - Demonstrated administrative, financial, and political expertise. - Experience successfully navigating collaborative community processes and establishing impactful partnerships. - Strong commitment to public service and a history of implementing change through shared goals and accountability. Special Requirements - Subject to confirmation by the City Council every four years. - Must pass a criminal history review and verification of applicant information in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance. Selection Process - The city may close the recruitment at any time once a suitably strong group of candidates has been established, so interested candidates should apply immediately. - Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information during the background check process. How To Apply - Submit a resume and a cover letter. - The cover letter must describe why you want to lead the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation and what uniquely qualifies you for this role. - For questions or to request reasonable accommodations for the application or interview process, contact Pam Inch at pam.inch@seattle.gov. Employment Details - Job Type: Civil Service Exempt, Regular, Full-time, FLSA-exempt (Executive 4). - Location: Parks and Recreation Administration Bldg., 100 Dexter Ave. N., Seattle, WA. - Job Number: 2026-00823. - Opening Date: 06/17/2026. - Benefits: Comprehensive package including leave, medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance. - The City of Seattle is an equal opportunity employer that values diverse perspectives and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply.

ABOUT THE ROLE - Serve as the State Chief Medical Epidemiologist for the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health, Community Health. - Based at the Public Health Lab in Smyrna, Delaware. - This is an exempt position outside the State of Delaware Merit System. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Specific daily duties are not detailed in the provided text. - The role generally involves directing statewide epidemiological investigations, disease surveillance, and public health medical responses. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific educational and experiential requirements are not listed in the provided text. - Roles of this level typically require a medical degree, specialized public health training, and significant epidemiological experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be available to work standard shift hours of 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. - Must be available for some weekends and after-hours work as required by public health needs. SELECTION PROCESS - Specific evaluation and interview steps are not detailed in the provided text. HOW TO APPLY - Contact DHSS Talent Acquisition for application instructions and to request the full job description. - Phone: 302-739-5458 - Reference Recruitment Number: 071726-MUDB05-350500 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employment Type: Actual Vacancy - Employment Term: Regular - Agency: DHSS / Public Health / Community Health - Type of Recruitment: Exempt-Non Merit - Opening Date: 07/21/2026 - Closing Date: 01/16/2027 at 11:59 PM - Location: Public Health Lab, 30 Sunnyside Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977

ABOUT THE ROLE The Office of the New York City Comptroller seeks an experienced, strategic, and forward-thinking leader to serve as Deputy Comptroller for the Audit Bureau. Reporting to the Executive Deputy Comptroller, this role oversees a diverse team of over 100 staff members. The Deputy Comptroller is responsible for setting audit strategy, ensuring high-quality execution, and delivering impactful audit findings that promote accountability, integrity, and meaningful reforms across City government in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS). KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide executive leadership, oversight, and direction for all Audit Bureau operations. - Develop and manage a comprehensive, risk-based audit plan aligned with the Charter mandate, strategic goals, emerging risks, and fiscal or operational issues. - Manage audit planning, fieldwork, quality assurance, and report production to ensure adherence to GAGAS and internal quality standards. - Review draft audit reports, findings, and recommendations for clarity, accuracy, and actionable guidance for agencies. - Foster collaborative relationships with internal partners, agency counterparts, external oversight bodies, and community organizations. - Advance the use of data analytics, benchmarking, and performance metrics to drive audit effectiveness and support evidence-based decision-making. - Build and mentor the audit leadership team, identifying training, coaching, and development opportunities. - Coordinate with other bureaus, including Policy Communications and the General Counsel, to align audit work with broader organizational initiatives. - Perform related assignments and special projects as needed. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and 10 or more years of progressively responsible experience in auditing, government oversight, evaluation, or performance management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role or managerial capacity; OR - Education and/or experience which is equivalent to the above. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for City employees with 2 continuous years of service). - Expertise in risk assessment, internal controls, program evaluation, or operational auditing is highly preferred. - Knowledge of government auditing standards, methodologies, and best practices is required. SELECTION PROCESS - No civil service exam is required for this position. - Applications will be screened based on minimum qualifications and preferred skills. - Candidates will be evaluated on their demonstrated success leading large teams, managing complex projects, and driving organizational change. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the official City of New York careers portal. - Ensure application materials clearly document the required education and 10 years of progressive experience (including 5 years in senior leadership), or equivalent. - Final Filing Date: September 6, 2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Office of the Comptroller (AUD-Executive) - Job ID: 785334 - Title Classification: Exempt-4 - Job Level: M6 (Manager) - Number of Positions: 1 - Work Location: 1 Centre St., N.Y. (Manhattan) - Category: Policy, Research & Analysis - Benefits: Eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and state repayment assistance programs.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Legislative Director serves as the primary advocate and liaison for the City of Alexandria with the Virginia General Assembly, the Governor’s administration, and federal policymakers. Reporting to a Deputy City Manager within the City Manager’s Office, this role is responsible for advancing the City’s legislative agenda at the state and federal levels, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities, and fostering collaborative relationships to support Alexandria’s policy and budgetary goals. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead the development, presentation, and execution of the City’s legislative agenda during General Assembly sessions. - Monitor and analyze state and federal legislation, budget proposals, and policy developments impacting the City. - Build and maintain strong working relationships with the General Assembly, Governor’s administration, congressional delegation, and legislative staff. - Manage the City’s federal lobbying program and coordinate advocacy for federal funding and grant opportunities. - Collaborate with City departments to align legislative priorities with operational needs. - Track legislation, identify risks and opportunities, and prepare clear briefings for City Council and leadership. - Advocate for state and federal funding to support City projects and initiatives. - Communicate legislative efforts to residents and stakeholders, and draft public statements and testimony. - Manage the legislative team and consultants, ensuring compliance with lobbying disclosure requirements. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Four-Year College Degree. - At least five years of experience in government at the Federal, State, or local level, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. - Significant experience in the legislative process, specifically working with the Virginia General Assembly and navigating Virginia’s state legislative process. - Some knowledge of or experience in the Federal legislative process. - Significant experience with written and verbal presentations. Preferred Qualifications: - Master's Degree or law degree. - Experience in multiple levels or areas of government (local, state, federal; executive and legislative). - Experience in State and Federal budget development. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Temporary relocation to Richmond, Virginia when the Virginia General Assembly is in session, along with weekly trips between Alexandria and Richmond, and frequent trips during the rest of the year (the City funds these relocation and travel expenses). - Primary work location is the City of Alexandria. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates must successfully complete pre-employment background checks, including but not limited to a criminal background check, as a condition of employment. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete application through the City of Alexandria's official employment portal prior to the closing date. - Refer to the Legislative Director Brochure for additional details on the role and application process. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Alexandria - Location: 421 King St., 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314 - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 2027-00501 - Department: City Manager's Office - Opening Date: 08/14/2026 - Closing Date: 9/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern - Bargaining Unit: N/A - Benefits: City covers 75-80% of Medical, Dental, and Vision; Retirement plans (City Supplemental, Virginia Retirement System, Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan); 13 days Administrative Leave; 13 paid holidays; 12 days Sick leave; 3 days Bereavement Leave per occurrence; $3,200 per fiscal year for Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Development; City-paid Long-Term Disability with buy-up options; Flexible Spending Accounts; up to $270 per month in Transit Benefits; access to on-site gyms near City Hall; onsite dental service twice per year; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); and various employee wellness and development programs.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Fire Chief serves as a key member of the City of Fairfax executive leadership team, providing strategic, administrative, operational, and cultural leadership for a high-performing combination career and volunteer fire and rescue organization. The role balances executive responsibilities with operational credibility, overseeing fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, code enforcement, emergency management, and community risk-reduction services. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide leadership for fire suppression, EMS, technical rescue, emergency management, fire prevention, code administration, training, and community risk-reduction programs. - Lead, develop, and support career and volunteer personnel while maintaining a culture of professionalism, accountability, safety, and service excellence. - Manage departmental budgets, staffing, capital planning, apparatus and equipment replacement, facilities, and long-range operational planning. - Ensure operational readiness through training, professional development, incident command capability, and performance evaluation. - Advance EMS quality, clinical readiness, and innovative service-delivery practices that improve community outcomes. - Serve as a collaborative member of the City Manager's leadership team, working closely with elected officials, city departments, regional public safety partners, George Mason University, employee groups, and community stakeholders. - Maintain a productive working relationship with the Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department while ensuring accountability for department-wide operations and safety. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in fire service administration, public administration, emergency management, public safety, management, or a closely related field. - Significant progressively responsible fire and EMS leadership experience, including command-level experience in a public fire and rescue organization. - Experience managing fire suppression, EMS, training, fire prevention, emergency management, budgeting, personnel, and capital planning functions. - Demonstrated leadership in a combination career/volunteer environment or the ability to build strong collaborative relationships with volunteer organizations and community partners. - Exceptional communication, integrity, judgment, and leadership skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - A master's degree is preferred. - Completion of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, Chief Fire Officer designation, or comparable executive-level credential is preferred. - Knowledge of accreditation, ISO standards, community risk reduction, deployment analysis, labor relations, FLSA, and public-sector budgeting is preferred. - There is no residency requirement for this position. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be reviewed following the closing date of September 7, 2026. - The City of Fairfax is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected status. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by September 7, 2026. - Submit a cover letter and resume along with the application. - Direct any questions to Jon Fehlman, MGT Senior Consultant, at (847) 380-3240 ext. 142. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: MGT (on behalf of the City of Fairfax) - Location: Fairfax, VA - Job Type: Full-Time - Closing Date: 9/7/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) - Benefits: The City offers a comprehensive benefits package.

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a highly responsible, professional law enforcement position managing and directing the activities, administration, and all functions of a municipal police department. The role is performed under the administrative direction of the City Manager, to whom the Chief reports directly. The Chief acts as an ambassador for the City, ensures the proactive establishment of objectives to safeguard lives and property, and leads the development of the department's organizational structure and standard operating procedures. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Performs professional administrative work to ensure the effective conduct of all functions, business, and services of the Police Department - Attends all meetings of the City Commission and aids in the enforcement of order under the direction of the presiding officer - Commands and directs all governmental and proprietary functions of the City Police Department - Directs and recommends hires, transfers, suspensions, layoffs, recalls, promotions, discharges, and discipline, and evaluates employees - Promulgates rules, regulations, and amendments for the appointment, promotion, discipline, and removal of employees - Establishes objectives to safeguard lives and property, forecasting future growth and assisting the City Planner in identifying potential traffic or crime problems - Leads the development and maintenance of an organizational structure and chain-of-command - Establishes standard operating procedures and delegates authority, responsibility, and accountability - Acts as a liaison for the criminal justice system to the executive branch of local government - Presents the future needs of personnel, equipment, and capital improvements by justifying appropriations - Implements and supports a problem-oriented policing philosophy - Identifies performance deficiencies and implements corrective measures such as training, mentoring, and counseling - Conducts performance evaluations and handles confidential information effectively and discreetly MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master's Degree in Police Administration or accepted equivalent - Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible law enforcement and police administration experience, including three (3) years in a command or administrative position - A comparable amount of relevant training, education, and/or experience may be substituted for the above qualifications SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License - Must meet all minimum requirements for the position of a police officer, as per Florida State Statute 943, and must have received police officer certification from the State of Florida - Preferred: Academic background including study at the Southern Police Institute or the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy - Must possess a background of proven management accomplishments, solid professional judgment, a progressive attitude, and strong leadership and interpersonal skills - Subject to recall around the clock for emergency response operations, which may require irregular work hours and relocation to emergency sites - Physical activities include light work: exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and negligible force constantly. Requires balancing, climbing, crouching, hearing, lifting, mental acuity, reaching, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity, walking, and operation of a City vehicle HOW TO APPLY Apply through the City of North Port job portal. Refer to Class Code PD4. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: North Port, FL - Class Title: Chief of Police - Class Code: PD4 - Grade: PD4 - Job Type: Full-Time, Senior Management - Work Environment: Typically performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands - Risk/Safety Conditions: Minimal exposure or risk to physical health and/or physical safety - Equal Opportunity: The City of North Port, FL is an Affirmative Action/ADA and Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities are Encouraged to Apply.

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a highly responsible, full-time law enforcement position serving as the commander of a major bureau within the Police Department. The role involves extensive public contact and may require assuming the role of acting Police Chief in their absence. Work is performed under the direction of the Deputy Chief of Police. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Directs and manages the assigned division in accordance with department policies and procedures - Responsible for the training, welfare, and discipline of all employees in the division - Assigns duties and functions related to the processing of complaints and investigations - Oversees inspections of all personnel and equipment assigned to the division - Oversees proper use, maintenance, calibration, certification, and replacement of police equipment - Assumes personal command of any serious emergency situation, major catastrophe, or major crime - Evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative, business, and emergency operations - Directs the preparation of short-term and long-range plans and budgets based upon departmental objectives - Ensures compliance with accreditation standards within the assigned division - Acts as a spokesperson for the Police Department to the news media and community - Represents the department and/or the Police Chief at various governmental and community meetings - Interacts with all levels of government officials and the public MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Police Administration, or a related field - Master's degree is preferred Experience: - Five (5) years of law enforcement supervisory experience Licenses and Certifications: - Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Florida driver's license by date of hire - Must meet all minimum requirements for the position of a police officer per Florida Statute 943 - Must have received police officer certification from the State of Florida SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass the Department's physical test and minimum requirements as outlined in the Florida Standards and Training Guidelines - Physical Activities: Light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently. Requires balancing, climbing, crouching, grasping, hearing, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity, and walking. Requires operation of a City vehicle. - Work Environment: Typically performed in a safe and secure environment that may periodically have unpredictable requirements. Occasional exposure or risk to physical health or safety (e.g., hazardous materials, heavy equipment). - Emergency Response: Subject to recall around the clock for emergency response operations, which may require irregular work hours, work at locations other than the normal work location, and duties other than those specified in the official job description. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates must successfully complete and pass the Department's physical test and meet all minimum requirements outlined in the Florida Standards and Training Guidelines. - Standard background, psychological, and medical evaluations are typically required for command-level law enforcement positions. HOW TO APPLY - Applications should be submitted through the City of North Port, FL official employment portal or human resources department. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS Employer: City of North Port, FL Department: Police Department Class Code: PD2 Job Type: Full-Time Location: North Port, FL Equal Opportunity: The City of North Port, FL is an Affirmative Action, ADA, and Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Commissioner of Property Exemption Administration provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for the City's property exemption programs, ensuring fair, accurate, and lawful administration. Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner of the Property Division, this role advises executive leadership, elected officials, and stakeholders on exemption matters, operational priorities, legislative impacts, and opportunities for modernization. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Direct and oversee all aspects of the City's real property exemption programs, including application review, eligibility determination, and program administration - Establish strategic priorities, operational goals, and performance standards for efficient, transparent, and customer-focused service delivery - Lead, supervise, and develop professional and administrative staff responsible for exemption processing and customer service - Provide expert guidance on complex exemption matters involving statutory interpretation, eligibility requirements, documentation standards, and appeals - Ensure consistent application of policies and procedures across all exemption activities - Partner with executive leadership, legal counsel, and external governmental agencies to advance strategic initiatives and resolve complex matters - Analyze legislative developments, operational metrics, audit findings, and industry trends to identify risks and recommend policy enhancements - Develop and implement process enhancements, technology initiatives, and workflow improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy - Prepare executive-level reports, presentations, recommendations, and briefings for senior leadership and public officials - Represent the Department at meetings, hearings, community forums, and professional events related to property taxation - Foster collaboration across divisions, develop succession planning, and promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and exceptional public service MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A Master's degree from an accredited college in economics, finance, business or public administration, human resource management, management science, operations research, organizational behavior, political science, urban studies, or a closely related field, and two years of satisfactory full-time professional experience in economic or financial administration, fiscal or economic research, management or method analysis, operations research, organizational research, or program evaluation in public administration, 18 months of which must have been in an executive, managerial, administrative, or supervisory capacity; OR 2. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in the areas described above and four years of professional experience in those areas, including 18 months of experience in an executive, managerial, administrative, or supervisory capacity. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain New York State Assessor Certification within three (3) years of appointment - Subject to an additional background investigation before appointment to access Federal Tax Information (FTI); passing this is a strict term and condition of employment - May be eligible for remote work up to 2 days per week pursuant to the Remote Work Pilot Program - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for eligible continuous City employees) - Preferred: Extensive experience in governmental or financial operations, property tax administration, and working with elected officials, auditors, and government stakeholders SELECTION PROCESS 1. No Exam Required 2. Review of application materials for minimum and preferred qualifications 3. Interview and discussion with the agency representative regarding qualifications, FTI background investigation, and residency requirements HOW TO APPLY Apply through the official New York City careers portal. - Job ID: 786311 - Posting closes on August 31, 2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-Time - Location: Manhattan (59 Maiden Lane, New York, NY) - Department: A/C Property Exemption, NYC Department of Finance - Experience Level: Manager (Job Level M5) - Title Code: 95089 - Civil Service Title: ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER, PROPER - Title Classification: Non-Competitive-5 - Category: Administration & Human Resources - Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment based on any legally protected status or characteristic.