Huntington Beach Seeks New Assistant City Manager

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City leaders engaging in discussions on municipal management strategies.

News Summary

Huntington Beach is in the process of recruiting an Assistant City Manager (ACM) to enhance municipal operations. The ACM will be integral to the Executive Leadership Team, working on various responsibilities, including city policies and major projects. Applicants need a master’s degree in Public Administration and at least five years of experience in high-level public roles. The recruitment follows the recent appointment of a permanent City Manager, indicating a commitment to strong leadership and effective governance.

Huntington Beach is actively seeking an Assistant City Manager (ACM) to enhance its municipal operations. This key leadership role will work directly under the guidance of the City Manager, contributing to the planning and management of the city’s administrative functions.

The ACM will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including the implementation of city policies and procedures, engaging in major negotiations, coordinating special projects, and collaborating with other city departments and external agencies. This position is an integral part of the Executive Leadership Team, which consists of elected officials and appointed department directors, collectively overseeing approximately 1,500 employees. The team is committed to fulfilling the City Council’s vision for the city’s 200,000 residents and its business community.

To qualify for this position, applicants must possess a master’s degree in Public Administration or a related field, coupled with a minimum of five years of experience in a high-level administrative or staff role within a public agency. Interested candidates can apply by submitting a cover letter and resume to humanresources@surfcity-hb.org. The salary for the ACM role ranges from $18,461.73 to $24,741.60 monthly, and the application process will remain open until the position is filled, encouraging candidates to apply promptly.

This recruitment comes on the heels of a significant change in the city’s leadership, as Travis Hopkins was appointed as the permanent City Manager. His appointment received unanimous support from the City Council, marking a notable transition as he is the first permanent city manager in over a year. Hopkins has been affiliated with Huntington Beach since 2006, where he initially served as a civil engineer before moving to the role of public works director, and subsequently as assistant city manager. His new contract as City Manager is effective for four years starting March 15 and includes an annual salary of $311,750 along with severance provisions if terminated without cause.

In addition to Hopkins’ appointment, Jennifer Carey has stepped into the role of Deputy City Manager after serving as the Acting Deputy City Manager for six months. In her new capacity, Carey will oversee the City Manager’s Office Administrative Division and the Office of Communications and Public Affairs. She previously held the position of Public Information Officer for the Huntington Beach Police Department and is recognized as a FEMA certified Public Information Officer.

Furthermore, the City Council will deliberate on additional agenda items in the upcoming sessions, including citizen initiatives related to library management. These discussions may lead to necessary actions or placements on the ballot as part of the city’s governance efforts to engage residents effectively.

The recruitment of an Assistant City Manager reflects Huntington Beach’s commitment to efficient administration and responsive governance. With significant personnel changes underway in the city’s leadership, the search for qualified candidates is aimed at fostering stable and effective municipal operations capable of addressing the needs of the community.