Description
City Manager – Decatur, Illinois
Population 68,763
The City of Decatur, Illinois is seeking an approachable, trustworthy, diplomatic, and visionary local government leader to serve as its next City Manager. The ideal candidate will be a steady, people-oriented professional who values collaboration, communication, and teamwork—while also maintaining the structure, accountability, and follow-through needed to get things done. The City Council seeks a leader who can balance relationships with results.
Why Decatur
Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Decatur offers a strategic location for business, industry, and quality of life. The city is conveniently situated along Interstate 72, U.S. Highway 51, and major freight rail lines—placing it within easy reach of Springfield, Bloomington-Normal, and Champaign-Urbana, and just a few hours from both Chicago and St. Louis. Decatur is also home to Lake Decatur, a recreational centerpiece and a key natural resource that supports the region’s industrial and residential needs.
The community is anchored by strong economic partners such as ADM (Archer Daniels Midland), Caterpillar, Mueller Water Products, and Primient, along with Decatur Memorial Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital. Educational and workforce development partners like Millikin University, Richland Community College, and the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur & Macon County (EDC) provide the foundation for continued innovation, job growth, and talent retention.
About the Organization
The City of Decatur operates under the statutory City Manager form of government, where the City Manager is appointed by the Mayor and a six-member City Council. The City Manager is supported by an excellent Executive Management Team and a talented Deputy City Manager. Residency within Decatur’s corporate limits is required within twelve months of hire.
The City Manager oversees day-to-day operations and ensures the effective administration of all departments: Administration, City Clerk, Economic Development, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, IT, Legal, Police, and Public Works. The City employs approximately 450 full-time staff, manages a General Fund budget of $100 million, and an overall budget of $290 million.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage all departments with integrity, transparency, and consistency.
Enforce the laws and policies established by the City Council.
Prepare and administer the annual municipal budget.
Advise the Mayor and City Council on financial and operational matters.
Collaborate with the Council on long-term goals, priorities, and strategic initiatives.
Serve as the primary conduit between the City Council and staff.
Foster teamwork, accountability, and a customer-focused organizational culture.
Engage with residents, businesses, and regional partners to advance Decatur’s vision.
Represent the City on community boards, regional committees, and civic activities.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, political science, law, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
At least seven years of local government executive management experience as a City Manager, County Manager, or City Administrator in a community similar in size to Decatur, a micropolitan center, or in an urban environment. An experienced Assistant or Deputy City Administrator/Manger in a community similar in size will also be considered.
Strong skills in budgeting, strategic planning, communication, and leadership.
Demonstrated ability to build trust with elected officials, employees, and the community.
A record of successfully implementing City Council priorities and organizational initiatives.
Compensation and Benefits
Starting Salary Range: $215,000 – $230,000, DOQ
Vehicle: City-provided or allowance (Manager’s choice)
Technology: City-issued laptop and smartphone
Retirement: IMRF plan participation
Insurance: Individual or family health plan
Leave: 13 paid holidays, 3 weeks vacation upon hire (5 weeks annually), 5 days sick leave upon hire
Professional Development: City-paid training and memberships
Severance: 8 weeks
Relocation Assistance: Up to $10,000, reimbursable with documentation
Application Process
Please submit a cover letter, résumé, and five professional references to apply@arndtmunicipalsupport.com.
Confidential inquiries may be directed to:
James W. Arndt, President & CEO
Arndt Municipal Support, Inc.
(217) 500-0770
First review of applications begins December 9, 2025.
The City of Decatur, Illinois is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Requirements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, political science, law, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
- At least seven years of local government executive management experience as a City Manager, County Manager, or City Administrator in a community similar in size to Decatur, a micropolitan center, or in an urban environment. An experienced Assistant or Deputy City Administrator/Manger in a community similar in size will also be considered.
- Strong skills in budgeting, strategic planning, communication, and leadership.
- Demonstrated ability to build trust with elected officials, employees, and the community.
- A record of successfully implementing City Council priorities and organizational initiatives.
