About Garfield Township

The Charter Township of Garfield (Garfield), Grand Traverse County, is part of the northwest region of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. This area is known for drawing visitors throughout all four seasons to enjoy beaches, vineyards, outdoor recreation, natural resources, and culinary destinations. Garfield is located near Grand Traverse Bay, a long, natural harbor made distinct from Lake Michigan by the Leelanau Peninsula. 

As neighbors, we work together to create a community where our residents and businesses thrive, our natural resources are protected and enjoyed, our visitors are welcomed and appreciated, and our high quality of life is promoted. 

The population of Garfield Township is approximately 20,000 individuals and covers around 27 square miles with a variety of residential developments, diverse retail and commercial businesses. Garfield is the fastest growing municipality in the 2nd fastest growing county in Michigan.

The Township has recently prioritized protecting the natural environment, housing choices and affordability, and quality and quantity of parks and open spaces.

For additional information about Garfield Township, visit: https://www.garfield-twp.com/
To view the complete job description, please click here.
To view a recruitment brochure view here.

About the Role of Township Manager

Garfield Township will be transitioning to a Township Manager form of government. In the past, the Township Supervisor performed most of the functions that will be shifting over to the new Township Manager. Beginning in November, 2024 the next Supervisor will play a different role - focused on carrying out statutory duties and chairing Township board meetings. This is an exciting opportunity for the first Township Manager to assist with this important transition.

Thus, we are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced municipal leader. The township manager must be a collaborative facilitator promoting a culture of respect,  open communication and teamwork when working with the Board of Trustees, capable staff, residents, committees and neighborhood communities. 

Key responsibilities that support day to day operations.

The Township Board of Trustees oversees this position. Key tasks and activities include:

• Supervise staff and department heads to ensure efficient administration of the township’s governmental activities and operations.
• In coordination with the Supervisor and Clerk, prepares and administers the annual budget under policies formulated by the Township Board and keeps said Board fully advised at all times as to the financial condition and needs of the Township.
• Assumes all duties and responsibilities as Human Resource/Personnel Director of all Township employees, or delegates such duties to some other officer or employee
• Coordinates the construction, repair, and maintenance of roads, lighting, sidewalks, pavements, public water and sewer, and of all the public buildings or other property belonging to the Township, as needed.
• Work with staff to monitor or manage grant opportunities and procurement of State and Federal grant programs.

About You

The ideal candidate for this position has many of the following attributes:

• Strong leadership skills, and demonstrated expertise building and supporting high performing teams.
• Excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
• An exceptional communicator - easily demonstrates an ability to foster open and transparent relationships with our residents, mentor and develop staff, and be empathetic towards a wide range of perspectives and needs.
• A bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration or related field is required with a master’s degree or graduate studies in public administration, public policy, public health or related field preferred.
• Experience with the following subject matter areas:
  • Principles of finance, budgets and procurement.
  • Economic development.
  • Public works and public policy - including but not limited to housing, roads, water, sewer, etc.
  • Working with a broad range of diverse individuals with various viewpoints.

• Applications are due by August 11.
• Candidates seeking confidentiality under Michigan law should clearly state their intentions.