What Does a City Manager Do? A Career Guide for Aspiring MPA Students

City managers play a crucial role in local government, ensuring that municipalities function smoothly and efficiently. They implement policies set by elected officials and manage public services. Their leadership helps maintain the quality of life for residents and fosters economic and community growth.

Given their extensive responsibilities, a strong educational background is vital.

Earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Tulane School of Professional Advancement (SoPA) John Lewis Public Administration Program equips aspiring city managers with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead municipalities and address complex societal challenges.

Through specialized coursework and hands-on learning experiences, you'll gain the expertise required to navigate the intricacies of public administration, making you well-prepared for leadership roles in city management.

Follow along with our career guide to learn more about city managers' daily responsibilities and key qualifications.

City Manager Primary Responsibilities

City managers oversee the administrative functions of a city. Their duties include managing daily operations, translating city council policies into actionable plans, and ensuring that municipal services meet residents' needs.

City managers play a crucial role in budgeting, developing financial plans, and allocating funds effectively to maintain city infrastructure and services. They are also responsible for hiring, supervising, and evaluating employees, including department heads, to ensure the workforce operates efficiently.

Another key aspect of the role is service delivery, ensuring essential city services such as public works, police, fire protection, sanitation, and parks are provided effectively. They work closely with department heads and community stakeholders to ensure that city services continuously improve and adapt to meet the needs of a growing population.

In times of crisis, city managers coordinate emergency response efforts, ensuring public safety and effective disaster management. Whether responding to natural disasters, public health emergencies, or infrastructure failures, city managers must develop contingency plans and mobilize resources quickly.

Their ability to assess challenges, provide informed recommendations, and lead with integrity is what allows them to drive meaningful change in their communities.

Key Skills and Qualifications for City Managers

City managers must blend education, leadership abilities, and technical skills to navigate their demanding role. Most hold an advanced degree in public administration or a related field.

According to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), 59% of managers and administrators have a master’s degree.

Tulane SoPA’s MPA program provides students with in-depth training in public policy analysis, organizational leadership, public finance, and ethics, all of which are essential for success in city management.

To excel in this role, city managers must be strong communicators, capable of effectively conveying policies, decisions, and information to elected officials, employees, and the public.

Leadership skills are crucial for managing municipal operations and inspiring teams. Financial management expertise is essential for budgeting and resource allocation, while strategic planning enables city managers to develop long-term solutions for community development.

City managers must be able to anticipate and plan for future needs, ensuring that the city remains financially stable and adaptable in changing economic climates.

Project management experience is also vital for overseeing infrastructure projects and city programs, while political acumen helps city managers navigate relationships with elected officials. The ability to manage political dynamics while remaining impartial is a key component of successful city management.

City Manager Career Paths and Opportunities 

City managers typically follow a structured career progression.

Many start with a bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, or a related field. They gain experience in local government, nonprofit organizations, or public policy roles before advancing into management positions. Earning a master’s degree is a common next step, significantly enhancing their career prospects and leadership capabilities.

Some may start in assistant city manager or department head positions before moving into the city manager role. Others may find opportunities in regional planning, consulting, or nonprofit leadership, where they can use their skills in governance and administration to improve public programs and services. The career path for city managers is dynamic and offers opportunities for specialization in areas like economic development, sustainability, or emergency management.

Challenges in the Role

City managers navigate complex challenges that require strategic problem-solving.

Balancing political and administrative duties is a significant challenge, as managers must maintain neutrality while working with elected officials. Financial pressures are also a concern, with city managers tasked with addressing budget constraints and ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Other challenges include managing aging infrastructure, ensuring public safety, and upgrading essential services. Housing affordability remains a pressing issue in many cities, requiring thoughtful policy solutions. Cybersecurity threats are an increasing concern, as city managers must protect municipal data and digital assets.

City managers must continuously develop innovative solutions to address these challenges while considering the community's best interests.

Prepare for Your Career With a Master of Public Administration

A career as a city manager offers a dynamic and impactful opportunity to shape communities and improve governance.

Earning a Master of Public Administration from Tulane SoPA provides students with a strong foundation in leadership, financial management, public policy, and community engagement. The program’s emphasis on data-informed decision-making, budgeting, and civic sector leadership prepares graduates to tackle the evolving challenges in public administration.

If you’re ready to advance your career in city management, explore how Tulane SoPA’s flexible, online MPA program can equip you with the expertise needed to thrive in this critical role.

With expert faculty, real-world case studies, and a curriculum designed to address modern governance challenges, Tulane SoPA is the ideal place to gain the education and experience needed to make a lasting impact in public administration.

Apply now to start your future in advancing public policy.