When the local government manager's position becomes vacant, someone is bound to be tapped to serve in an acting or interim capacity. Often, the acting manager is selected from within the organization, and he or she is suddenly faced with an unfamiliar set of roles, responsibilities, and expectations. The decision to accept the role of interim manager can be a difficult one, requiring thoughtful consideration of where you are and where you’d like to be in your professional and personal journey.
In 2018, all local government professionals need to be prepared for and have the ability to respond to this opportunity, whether your answer is a thoughtful “Not at this time,” or “I can do that!,” or something in between. The 2016 ICMA Task Force on Serving as an Interim or Acting Manager updated and expanded Resources for the Interim or Acting Manager to help the interim manager make the most of a sometimes unexpected opportunity.
An Acting or Interim Manager's Guide for Success
Building on the excellent work of the 2004–2005 task force, the 2016 task force drew on personal experiences, reached out to colleagues, and conducted a survey of other managers who have served in an interim or acting role. ICMA’s greatest resource is the collective experience of its members. Following several months of review, discussion, and consultation with colleagues, the task force refreshed this resource and encourages you to use it as a valuable reference point for your next steps.
In Resources for the Interim or Acting Manager, you'll learn how to:
- Decide if the interim manager role is right for you.
- Put into writing the terms of agreement for the position.
- Conduct an assessment of the community and the organization and succeed through your interim position (60-day checklist).
- Define your role as (interim) manager.
- Be the interim manager during the search process.
- Garner the support of colleagues and staff for success.
- And more!
Time spent as an interim manager can be a valuable experience for the advancement of your career. Download Resources for the Interim or Acting Manager and succeed in the opportunity.
Thank You to the Following 2016-2017 Task Force Members
Ed Shikada, assistant city manager, Palo Alto, California, chairperson
Jason Bobst, township manager, West Norriton, Pennsylvania
Donna Brown, director of human resources, Scottsdale, Arizona
Gary Dyke, city manager, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
Reyna Farrales, deputy county manager, San Mateo, California
John Goodwin, assistant city manager, Canandaigua, New York
Elizabeth Ladner, city manager, South Lyon, Michigan
Greg Larson, partner, Management Partners, Santa Cruz, California
Sara Ott, assistant city manager, Aspen, Colorado
Alan Pennington, vice president, Matrix Consulting Group, Edwardsville, Illinois
Christian Sigman, city manager, Brookhaven, Georgia
Jason Slowinski, city manager, Golden, Colorado
Diane Stoddard, assistant city manager, Lawrence, Kansas
Melissa Byrne Vossmer, city manager, Ingleside, Texas
Heidi Ann Wachter, city attorney, Lakewood, Washington
New, Reduced Membership Dues
A new, reduced dues rate is available for CAOs/ACAOs, along with additional discounts for those in smaller communities, has been implemented. Learn more and be sure to join or renew today!