Hiring Range: $160,000-$190,000
First Review: June 5, 2026
Apply at public-advisors.com/sunprairie

The City of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, seeks an Assistant City Administrator to serves as a key member of the executive leadership team, providing strategic oversight and organizational leadership across a broad portfolio of municipal services. Reporting directly to the City Administrator, this position plays a central role in advancing the City’s strategic priorities, enhancing operational performance, and ensuring the effective delivery of high-quality public services. This position provides executive oversight of major service areas including Public Works, Engineering, Wastewater, Planning, Building Inspection, Parks, Recreation, and Forestry, working closely with department leaders to align operations with the City’s long-term vision and growth.

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The City of Sun Prairie seeks a collaborative, strategic leader to serve as Assistant City Administrator. The ideal candidate will bring strong organizational leadership, sound judgment, and a solutions-oriented approach, with the ability to oversee a broad portfolio of services and support high-performing department directors. The City seeks an authentic and transparent leader who can help guide the organization as it transitions into a levy-limited environment.

This individual is a trusted advisor and clear communicator who can navigate complex organizational and political environments while building strong relationships with elected officials, staff, regional partners, and community members. The City desires a culturally competent leader who can effectively engage with and serve a diverse population. The successful candidate will lead cross-functional initiatives, align operations with strategic priorities, and support a growing, dynamic community. The ideal candidate is committed to data-driven decision-making, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position. Applications are now being accepted until the position is filled, with a first review no later than June 5, 2026.

Please email your cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jess Wildes at jess@public-advisors.com. Learn more and apply at https://www.public-advisors.com/sunprairie.

Please direct questions to Jess at 262-339-5658.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field required.

• Ten (10)+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in local government or a comparable organization.

• International City/County Management Association Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM) preferred.

About Innovative Public Advisors

Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is a premier public sector executive recruitment and strategy firm dedicated to empowering municipalities with tailored solutions that enhance leadership, optimize operations, and drive positive community impact. Founded by experienced municipal professionals Jay Shambeau, ICMA-CM, MPA, and Jess Wildes, MPA, IPA offers a wide range of services including executive recruitment, professional coaching, grant writing, governance training, communications strategy, and strategic plan development. With a focus on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions, IPA is committed to helping local governments and public sector professional navigate complex challenges and strengthen their capacity to serve their communities effectively.

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