Wheaton, IL - City Manager

The City of Wheaton, IL (population 53,970) blends small-town appeal with the conveniences of a vibrant city and is seeking a dynamic City Manager eager to serve this exceptional community. As the county seat of DuPage County, Wheaton is primarily residential and has earned recognition as one of Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in the Nation.” The city recently completed a $35 million downtown revitalization project, enhancing outdoor dining, shopping, and hosting a variety of community events. Home to Wheaton College and conveniently located on Chicago’s Metra line, Wheaton offers excellent commuting options into Chicago.

The incoming City Manager will oversee, develop, and manage city programs, policies, and services, working closely with the departments of Building and Code Enforcement, Communications, Economic Development, Engineering, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal, Planning/Economic Development, Police, and Public Works. This role supervises 270 employees and collaborates with four labor unions to ensure the delivery of high-quality municipal services, guided by an annual budget of approximately $135 million. Wheaton operates under a Council-Manager government structure as a home rule community, with a Mayor and six-member City Council with two elected at-large and one from each of the four districts, all for four-year terms.

The ideal candidate:

A master’s degree in Public or Government Administration, city or regional planning, or a related field is required, along with at least eight years of experience in municipal government management, including a minimum of five years in a supervisory role.
Exemplary leadership skills empowering staff by focusing on performance standards and driving results. Will have the ability to delegate effectively, be proficient in budgeting, strategic planning and personnel management. Experience working with labor unions is a plus.
Extensive knowledge of municipal management, particularly financial management, and Illinois municipal regulations. Candidates who enjoy a familiarity of pending legislation, grants and emergency response protocols is preferred.
A collaborative leadership style with an openness to innovation when problem solving and still be decisive and approachable; an individual who has a proven track record of demonstrating an ability to work with key partners within the community, citizens and business community to attain strategic goals.

The City Manager is appointed by and reports to the Mayor and City Council. Residency is not required. The established salary range of $198,823-$278,353 is offered; well qualified candidates may be eligible for a higher starting salary. The new City Manager will have access to a competitive benefits package including health, dental, life insurance, IMRF pension, voluntary deferred compensation, city vehicle and so much more.

Apply online with resume, cover letter and contact information for five professional references by March 20, 2026, to the attention of Katy Rush, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter. Confidential inquiries may be directed to Ms. Rush, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter at 847-380-3240 X 122.

The City of Wheaton is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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Application Deadline: March 20, 2026