Town Manager Opening

Help shape the next chapter of a historic New England mill town that’s building a bold future with world class broadband, a resilient local economy, and a strong sense of place.

Springfield, Vermont (population ~9,000) is welcoming applications for our next Town Manager, a dynamic, forward thinking leader ready to accelerate our Strategic Plan and guide a thriving community through a period of transformation. Nationally recognized for our robust fiber optic network, Springfield pairs small town living with big city connectivity, reasonable housing prices, and deep community pride. It’s no wonder we’re becoming a community of distinction in Southern Vermont.

Why Springfield?

  • Future‑ready infrastructure: A best‑in‑class fiber network that’s powering remote work, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
  • Authentic Vermont living: Historic neighborhoods, river and mountain views, and a calendar full of community events.
  • Momentum you can feel: A Selectboard and regional partners aligned on growth—expanding the tax base, increasing population, and adding diverse housing options.

If you’re energized by inclusive growth, collaborative partnerships, and long‑term community vitality, you’ll find a welcome home here.

The Role

Springfield is a full service municipality offering police, fire/ambulance, water/sewer, recreation, and public works. The Town Manager form of government is established in the Town Charter (including a super majority provision for termination). The Manager reports to a five member Selectboard elected at large that typically meets twice monthly, setting broad policy while delegating operations to the Manager.
As Town Manager, you will:
  • Lead day‑to‑day town operations and champion the execution of the Strategic Plan.
  • Hire, support, and supervise department heads while building a strong, values‑driven leadership team.
  • Oversee 100 full‑time employees across four unions (police, fire/ambulance, public works, library) within a collaborative labor environment.
  • Manage combined annual budgets of approximately $20 million across multiple funds, sustaining the Town’s strong financial position and comparatively low debt.
  • Drive key initiatives in housing, economic development, and infrastructure while keeping an eye on the details—everything from parking enforcement to annual paving.
  • Serve as Springfield’s chief connector—an affable, informed presence who builds trust with residents, businesses, and regional partners.
This is a people‑centered role for a consummate generalist who can toggle seamlessly between strategy and operations.

Residency: Town residency is not required; Vermont residency is required within six months of appointment.

What You’ll Lead

  • Growth & Housing: Advance policies and partnerships that expand housing options and grow the grand list.
  • Capital & Operations: Deliver reliable, cost‑effective services while executing capital projects on time and on budget.
  • Team Development: Mentor a skilled, recently refreshed department head cohort—supported by full‑time Finance and Human Resources directors.
  • Community Relations: Communicate clearly and often; strengthen transparency, engagement, and Springfield’s regional profile.

A detailed job description is available on the Town website.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public administration, business management, public policy, or a related field preferred.
  • Experience: Demonstrated leadership in a dynamic public organization; deep knowledge of municipal governance; excellent written and verbal communication; collaborative leadership style.
  • Presence: While in‑town residence isn’t required, reasonable proximity to Springfield is important to participate fully in civic life.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: $145,000 – $160,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
  • Retirement: Participation in the Vermont Municipal Employees Retirement System (VMERS) Group B, a portable defined‑benefit program.
  • Transportation: Choice of a town car or mileage stipend.
  • Health: Town pays 90% of health insurance premiums.
  • Relocation: Up to $7,500 relocation stipend available.

How to Apply

Recruitment is managed by the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT). Initial review of applications will begin October 6, 2025.

Please email a PDF résumé and cover letter to Dominic Cloud at dcloud@vict.org. Mr. Cloud is also available by phone or text at (602) 309‑1775.

Applicants will remain confidential throughout the process. The Town of Springfield is an equal opportunity employer.
We’re proud of where we’ve been, and even more excited about where we’re going. If you’re a builder of teams, a listener by instinct, and a leader who turns vision into action, we’d love to meet you. Come help us write the next chapter of Springfield, Vermont.

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