Deputy Director Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION 

Detroit is buzzing with renewed energy as Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield steps into history as the city’s first Black woman to serve as its chief executive. Her landslide win — securing roughly 77% of the vote — reflects a strong mandate from Detroiters ready for a government that listens, heals, and delivers. Many see this moment as the start of a new chapter, led by someone with deep roots in the community and a steady, practical approach to governing that centers the needs of the people who call Detroit home.

Mayor-Elect Sheffield has tapped into a genuine sense of optimism, making clear that her focus is not on headlines but on the daily lives of residents. She is building a new administration that will take office on January 1, 2026, and is seeking committed, capable leaders to help shape Detroit’s future. If you’re ready to serve and ready to build, this is your moment to step forward. Come help write the next chapter for Detroit with us!

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

Detroit’s Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity (CRIO) safeguards the civil and human rights of all Detroiters and works to ensure that every resident—regardless of race, income, age, ability, language, gender identity, immigration status, or neighborhood—can fully access City services, economic opportunity, and participation in public life. CRIO leads the City’s civil-rights enforcement work, advances business inclusion and workforce equity, strengthens disability and language access, and embeds equity into housing, neighborhood development, and public-service delivery. Under the Sheffield Administration, CRIO plays a central role in aligning civil rights with housing justice, neighborhood revitalization, immigrant inclusion, re-entry supports, and poverty-reduction strategies, working in close partnership with community organizations, legal advocates, and City departments.

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Deputy Director serves as the second-in-command of CRIO and supports the Director in advancing an integrated, citywide civil-rights and equity agenda that connects enforcement, economic opportunity, housing access, and neighborhood development. Reporting to the Director, the Deputy Director helps manage day-to-day operations, oversees key program areas, and ensures that civil-rights protections are consistently embedded across City policies, programs, and investments. The role requires a seasoned equity leader with strong operational instincts, deep civil-rights expertise, and the ability to translate values into systems, practices, and measurable outcomes that improve daily life for Detroiters.

This role will drive key priorities outlined in Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s policy agenda, including:

• Strengthen CRIO’s capacity to enforce civil-rights protections while expanding its role as a proactive partner in housing, neighborhood development, and economic-opportunity initiatives

• Ensure that housing access, fair housing enforcement, and anti-displacement strategies are treated as core civil-rights priorities across City government

• Advance equitable access to City services through strong ADA compliance, language access, and inclusive service-delivery standards

• Support business inclusion, procurement equity, and workforce equity strategies that expand opportunity for Detroit-based and historically excluded businesses and workers

• Embed civil-rights and equity analysis into major City policies related to housing, homelessness, land use, workforce development, public safety, and immigrant inclusion

• Strengthen partnerships with community-based organizations, legal advocates, and civil-rights leaders to ensure resident voices inform enforcement and policy decisions

• Build data-driven systems that identify patterns of inequity and guide targeted, preventative interventions

Core responsibilities include: 

• Support the Director in overseeing CRIO’s civil-rights enforcement operations, including investigations, mediation, compliance reviews, and pattern-and-practice analysis

• Manage and supervise key program areas such as fair housing, ADA compliance, language access, business inclusion, and workforce equity initiatives

• Ensure civil-rights protections are integrated into housing, neighborhood revitalization, and economic-development programs across the City

• Coordinate civil-rights reviews of major policy initiatives, development projects, and departmental reforms

• Oversee day-to-day operations, staff supervision, workflow management, and internal systems to ensure timely, high-quality service delivery

• Strengthen partnerships with housing agencies, workforce entities, planning and development departments, and neighborhood-based organizations

• Support development of CRIO’s data, analytics, and reporting functions to track equity outcomes and inform policy recommendations

• Serve as a liaison to community advocates, legal partners, and residents raising civil rights concerns or seeking resolution

• Represent CRIO in interdepartmental working groups, community meetings, and external collaborations as assigned

• Assist in preparing briefings, recommendations, and policy guidance for the Mayor, City Council, and executive leadership

• Support organizational change efforts that build a culture of equity, accountability, and continuous improvement within CRIO

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in public administration, law, public policy, civil rights, or a related field preferred

• Significant experience in civil-rights enforcement, equity policy, investigations, compliance, or related public-sector work

• Demonstrated ability to manage programs, supervise teams, and support complex operations in a public-sector or mission-driven environment

• Strong working knowledge of federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws, fair-housing requirements, ADA standards, and language-access obligations

• Experience collaborating with housing agencies, workforce systems, planning and development entities, or economic-development programs

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal and equity concepts into actionable guidance

• Ability to work effectively with diverse communities, including those most impacted by discrimination or inequitable development

• Proven ability to partner with elected officials, senior executives, attorneys, community advocates, and cross-sector stakeholders

• Strong organizational, analytical, and project-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure

• High emotional intelligence, cultural humility, and sound judgment in navigating sensitive community and political contexts

• Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, communities, and local government systems, or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge, or the ability to develop this knowledge quickly.

Rate of Pay:  $120,000 – $179,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits:
Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: 
The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy CFO - Budget Director

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION 

Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

The Office of the Chief Financial Officer plays a central role in shaping how Detroit’s values become real through public investment. Beyond balancing revenues and expenditures, the office helps determine where the City places its priorities, how resources are distributed across neighborhoods, and how government delivers on its commitments to residents. As Detroit enters a new chapter under Mayor-Elect Sheffield, the OCFO is focused on using the budget as a strategic instrument to advance equity, transparency, and measurable outcomes — ensuring that public dollars support housing stability, economic opportunity, public health, safety, and high-quality services in every neighborhood.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Deputy CFO – Budget Director serves as Detroit’s lead architect of public investment strategy. This role oversees the City’s operating and capital budgets while reimagining the budget process as a vehicle for policy implementation, accountability, and trust-building. The Director partners closely with the Mayor’s Office, City Council, department leadership, and community stakeholders to ensure that Detroit’s budget reflects the Administration’s priorities and the lived realities of Detroiters. This is a mission-critical leadership role for a fiscal strategist who believes budgets are moral documents — capable of accelerating progress, correcting inequities, and delivering tangible improvements in people’s daily lives.

This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:

• Position Detroit’s budget as a core driver of the Mayor’s agenda for equity, opportunity, and neighborhood-level impact

• Align annual and multi-year budgets with priorities such as affordable housing, homelessness prevention, workforce development, public health, small-business growth, and service excellence

• Embed equity and outcomes-based analysis into budget decisions to ensure resources flow to communities with the greatest needs and opportunities

• Modernize the City’s budget process to be more transparent, accessible, and responsive to residents and stakeholders

• Strengthen cross-departmental coordination so investments work together rather than in silos

• Use data, performance metrics, and community feedback to guide budget decisions and course-correct when needed

• Support long-term fiscal sustainability while making bold, values-driven investments that shape Detroit’s future

This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Lead the development and execution of Detroit’s annual operating and capital budgets in close partnership with City leadership and departments

• Translate the Mayor’s policy priorities into actionable budget strategies that deliver measurable results

• Guide departments through an inclusive, outcomes-focused budget process that prioritizes impact over incrementalism

• Develop multi-year financial plans, forecasts, and scenarios that support both near-term delivery and long-term sustainability

• Analyze spending proposals and provide strategic recommendations that balance fiscal responsibility with community needs

• Prepare clear, compelling budget materials for executive leadership, City Council, and public audiences

• Collaborate with performance and data teams to strengthen results-based budgeting and accountability

• Monitor budget performance throughout the fiscal year and recommend adjustments to stay aligned with policy goals

• Ensure compliance with state and local budget requirements while advancing innovation in public finance practices

• Build and lead a high-performing budget team grounded in collaboration, equity, and continuous improvement

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, public policy, economics, finance, or a related field; advanced degree preferred

• Seven or more years of senior-level experience in public-sector budgeting, financial planning, or fiscal policy

• Demonstrated experience using budget processes to advance policy priorities and organizational change

• Strong analytical skills combined with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and persuasively

• Experience working in large, complex municipal or governmental organizations

• Commitment to equity-centered governance, transparency, and resident accountability

• Ability to collaborate across political, departmental, and community contexts

• Comfort operating in fast-moving, high-visibility environments with significant public impact

Rate of Pay:   $135,681 - $193,607 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits:
Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: 
The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy CFO - Office of Departmental Financial Services

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION 

Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

The Office of Departmental Financial Services (ODFS), housed within Detroit’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer, serves as the financial backbone of City government. ODFS partners directly with City departments to ensure sound fiscal management, transparency, and accountability across operations that touch residents’ daily lives—from public safety and health to housing, transportation, and neighborhood services. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s administration, ODFS plays a critical role in translating policy priorities into financially sustainable programs, strengthening long-term stability, and ensuring that public dollars are deployed in ways that advance equity, efficiency, and resident trust.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Deputy Chief Financial Officer for the Office of Departmental Financial Services is a senior executive leader responsible for overseeing the City’s departmental financial management systems and ensuring strong fiscal stewardship across City agencies. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Deputy CFO leads strategic financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, accounting, grants oversight, and financial policy implementation for assigned departments. This role is central to helping Detroit deliver on its priorities—ensuring that departments have the financial tools, systems, and guidance needed to execute programs effectively, responsibly, and in alignment with the Mayor’s vision for resident-centered government.

This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:

• Strengthen the financial partnership between City departments and central finance to improve service delivery and accountability

• Ensure City resources are aligned with Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s priorities around housing stability, public health, neighborhood investment, and economic opportunity

• Advance transparent, data-driven financial decision-making that builds public trust

• Support long-term fiscal sustainability while enabling strategic investments in neighborhoods and essential services

• Modernize financial systems and practices to improve efficiency, compliance, and performance across City government

This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Provide executive leadership over the Office of Departmental Financial Services and its assigned Agency CFOs

• Partner with department leadership to plan, implement, and manage all financial activities, including budgeting, accounting, forecasting, grants, and financial reporting

• Oversee development and execution of departmental operating and capital budgets in coordination with the Office of Budget

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations, grant requirements, and City policies

• Collaborate with the Controller’s Office on financial reporting, audits, and corrective actions

• Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and systems that strengthen internal controls and operational efficiency

• Monitor financial performance and advise City leadership on fiscal risks, opportunities, and long-term impacts of policy decisions

• Support departments in aligning financial resources with strategic goals and performance outcomes

• Lead, coach, and manage senior financial staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

• Represent the OCFO and ODFS in meetings with City leadership, City Council, external partners, and oversight entities

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field

• Advanced degree strongly preferred

• Seven or more years of progressively responsible experience in finance or accounting, including at least three years in a senior management or supervisory role

• Demonstrated experience managing complex financial operations within a large organization, preferably in municipal or public-sector settings

• Strong knowledge of governmental accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance requirements

• Proven ability to partner with operational leaders to translate policy goals into financially sound strategies

• Experience overseeing grants, contracts, and multi-fund financial environments

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment with competing priorities

• Commitment to transparency, equity, and responsible stewardship of public resources

• Detroit experience or deep familiarity with the City’s governmental and community context strongly preferred

Rate of Pay:  $135,681 - $193,607 annually commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits:
Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: 
The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy Director of Human, Homeless and Family Services Department

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION

Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

The Department of Human, Homeless & Family Services (HHFS) is Detroit’s centralized system for delivering coordinated, dignity-centered support to residents across every neighborhood. The department brings together key household-stability programs—including Homeless Services, Housing Services and Home Repair, Family and Senior Services, Returning Citizens supports, Immigrant and Disability Affairs, Benefits Navigation, and neighborhood-based Resource Hubs—to form an integrated ecosystem that helps Detroiters access the services they need without navigating fragmented systems.

Grounded in equity and community partnership, HHFS works across City departments, County and State agencies, healthcare systems, philanthropic partners, and neighborhood organizations to reduce barriers, strengthen upstream prevention, and address the social determinants of health that shape residents’ daily lives. The department also manages the development of Detroit’s Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, where cross-agency services are delivered directly in communities to meet residents where they are.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Senior Director of Human, Homeless & Family Services, the Deputy Director serves as the department’s chief operational leader—responsible for ensuring that Detroit’s full network of household-support programs functions cohesively, efficiently, and in alignment with the Mayor’s vision for dignity-centered, resident-focused government.

The Deputy Director oversees day-to-day operations across multiple units reflected in the organizational chart—Homeless Services, Family Services, Senior Services, Home-Repair and Stabilization Supports, Immigration and Disability Affairs, Returning Citizens Services, outreach teams, navigation services, and the Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs. The role ensures that each program area operates with clear standards, timely service delivery, and strong coordination across City, County, nonprofit, and philanthropic partners.

This position plays a central role in translating strategy into action: supporting the launch of new service hubs, strengthening coordinated-entry systems, improving shelter and outreach operations, integrating data and case-management systems, and aligning all household-stability programs under a unified operational framework. The Deputy Director is a hands-on, high-trust leader who builds strong internal systems, supports frontline teams, and ensures that resident voices and experiences shape continuous improvement across the department.

This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:

• Supporting implementation of Detroit’s unified Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention governance model

• Overseeing coordinated operations for Homeless Services, including outreach, diversion, shelter, and supportive-housing pathways

• Strengthening upstream prevention programs addressing housing, income, transportation, health, and digital access

• Launching and operationalizing Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs with integrated walk-in services and crisis-response capacity

• Improving service delivery for seniors, families, immigrants, returning citizens, and residents with disabilities

• Supporting home-repair and home-stabilization programs that help longtime Detroiters remain in their homes

• Implementing the City Information Exchange (CIE) and related data-integration tools to enhance coordination and outcomes tracking

• Strengthening partnerships with CBOs, healthcare systems, County agencies, philanthropic partners, and faith institutions

• Improving customer service standards, transparency, and accountability across all HHFS programsThis description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Manage daily operations across HHFS program areas—including Homeless Services, Family Services, Senior Services, Immigrant and Disability Affairs, Returning Citizens Services, Home-Repair Supports, Benefits Navigation, and neighborhood-based Resource Hubs

• Supervise program managers and operational leads to ensure consistent performance, compliance, and resident-centered service delivery

• Translate strategic priorities into operational plans, workflows, timelines, training plans, and performance standards

• Strengthen integrated service pathways connecting housing stabilization, healthcare and behavioral-health supports, home repair, youth and senior services, employment resources, and financial-assistance programs

• Oversee cross-agency coordination with the Chief of Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention, the COO, philanthropic funders, and County and nonprofit partners

• Implement performance-measurement systems tracking resident outcomes, response times, diversion rates, housing placements, and customer-service indicators

• Support launch, staffing, and operations of Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs and mobile-service teams

• Coordinate crisis-response and multi-agency action for residents with complex needs spanning health, housing, transportation, safety, and income stabilization

• Manage internal HR functions, staffing structures, procurement, contracting, and department-wide operations

• Represent the department in intergovernmental forums, community meetings, provider convenings, and cross-agency working groups

• Ensure all HHFS programs reflect trauma-informed care, dignity, equity, accessibility, and transparency in service delivery

Qualifications: 

• Significant experience managing human-services, homelessness-response, public-health, or community-based systems in an urban environment

• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams, oversee complex operations, and implement cross-agency service-coordination strategies

• Strong understanding of social determinants of health, trauma-informed practice, crisis-response models, family-support systems, and housing-stabilization pathways

• Experience managing diverse funding streams and multi-program budgets with federal, state, local, and philanthropic compliance requirements

• Track record of operational improvement, service-quality enhancement, and implementation of performance-measurement frameworks

• Proven partnership-building skills with CBOs, philanthropic institutions, healthcare systems, faith-based organizations, and government partners

• Extensive knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community organizations, and human-services ecosystem strongly preferred

• Experience launching or scaling community-centered initiatives with measurable outcomes

• Excellent communication, project-management, facilitation, and data-driven decision-making skills

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in a relevant field preferred

• Detroit-based candidates and individuals with deep local relationships strongly encouraged to apply

Rate of Pay:  $100,000– $180,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy Chief of Staff

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  
The Mayor’s Office serves as the executive center of Detroit’s government, providing leadership, coordination, and alignment across all City departments. The office supports execution of the Mayor’s priorities, oversees major initiatives, and ensures responsive, community-centered service delivery. Working closely with senior leaders, department directors, community stakeholders, and regional partners, the office plays a central role in advancing a Detroit that listens, heals, and delivers.

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Deputy Chief of Staff is a senior member of the Mayor’s leadership team and serves as the Chief of Staff’s principal partner in managing daily operations of the Mayor’s Office. The role supports cross-departmental coordination, oversees internal workflow, ensures high-quality briefing materials, provides guidance to staff, and manages priority execution to ensure the Mayor’s time, attention, and decision-making are used effectively. The Deputy Chief of Staff acts as an extension of both the Mayor and Chief of Staff, helping to translate priorities into operational plans and ensuring follow-through across departments.

The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a critical role in ensuring the Mayor is fully prepared for meetings, events, community engagements, and decision-making processes. This includes coordinating the production of briefings, ensuring deadlines are met, maintaining quality control of all written and verbal materials, and confirming that every engagement reflects the Mayor’s expectations, values, and strategic goals. The role requires strong judgment, political acumen, operational discipline, and a commitment to community-rooted leadership consistent with the Sheffield administration.

This position supports management of internal staff, facilitates communication between the Mayor’s Office and City departments, and helps to resolve operational challenges quickly and effectively. The Deputy Chief of Staff may represent the Mayor or Chief of Staff in meetings, serve as a problem-solver for emerging issues, and help maintain high-functioning, mission-aligned operations across the administration.

This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor or Chief of Staff.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Support the Chief of Staff in managing daily operations of the Mayor’s Office

• Coordinate internal communication, ensuring clear, timely, and accurate flow of information between departments

• Oversee the production, quality control, and timely delivery of briefing materials, memos, talking points, meeting agendas, and decision documents

• Ensure the Mayor is fully prepared for all engagements; schedule pre-briefings, follow-ups, and staff assignments to maintain high-quality preparation

• Work closely with the Director of Scheduling & Logistics to protect the Mayor’s time, energy, and capacity, and to ensure meetings and events are aligned with strategic priorities

• Facilitate cross-departmental coordination to advance initiatives and resolve operational issues

• Manage staff within the Mayor’s Office, supporting accountability, workflow, and professional development

• Assist with community engagement planning, major events, neighborhood touchpoints, and strategic projects overseen by the Mayor’s Office

• Represent the Mayor or Chief of Staff in meetings, committees, public events, or negotiations when needed

• Support intergovernmental coordination and relationship-building with City Council, state and federal partners, regional authorities, and other key stakeholders

• Review materials prepared for the Mayor and ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with policy priorities

• Help manage internal decision-making processes, identify issues requiring escalation, and ensure timely follow-through

• Support budget planning and oversight for the Mayor’s Office

• Work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, as required for government operations

• Perform additional duties as directed by the Mayor or Chief of Staff

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree required; a master’s degree (MPA, MPP, MBA, JD) preferred

• Extensive experience supporting senior executives in government, particularly within a Mayor’s Office, Governor’s Office, or other executive branch; strong preference for candidates with experience working directly for an elected official

• Deep understanding of municipal operations, intergovernmental relations, public administration, and Detroit’s community, political, and institutional landscape

• Proven ability to manage complex workflows in fast-paced environments, including briefing materials, scheduling priorities, and cross-departmental coordination

• Executive-level experience in one or more of the following is preferred: executive logistics; process streamlining and performance improvements; communications and public affairs

• High emotional intelligence, cultural humility, and strong relationship-building skills with diverse communities, neighborhood leaders, unions, business stakeholders, and regional partners

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex issues into clear, actionable materials for executive decision-making

• Demonstrated ability to lead through influence, manage staff, and maintain a culture of respect, accountability, and service

• Strong political judgment and discretion, with experience managing sensitive issues, urgent situations, and high-stakes decision cycles

• Commitment to advancing the Mayor-Elect’s values of equity, transparency, neighborhood empowerment, and resident-centered governance

• Experience working in Detroit or a major urban environment is strongly preferred

Rate of Pay:  $109,670– $179,816 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy Chief of Business Innovation and Emerging Industries

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION 

Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

The Office of Business Innovation & Emerging Industries leads Detroit’s strategy to cultivate a future-ready economy grounded in mobility, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, defense, AI, robotics, biotechnology, and other emerging sectors. As part of Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s economic opportunity agenda, the office ensures that Detroit becomes a nationally competitive hub for innovation while expanding pathways for Detroiters and small businesses to participate in the industries of tomorrow. Situated within the Mayor’s executive leadership structure, the office works closely with the Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce & Economic Development and the Chief of Neighborhood Economic Development & Small Business to connect innovation with inclusive growth, workforce opportunity, and neighborhood-based economic mobility.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting directly to the Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce & Economic Development, the Deputy Chief of Business Innovation & Emerging Industries drives the administration’s work to position Detroit as a leading center for technology, emerging industries, and next-generation business development. The Deputy Chief develops partnerships at the local, state, federal, corporate, philanthropic, and research levels; designs policies to attract national and international investment; and builds programs that help Detroit residents benefit from industry transformation. The role strengthens Detroit’s presence in fields such as advanced mobility, EV and battery manufacturing, defense and aerospace, AI and machine learning, robotics, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chip manufacturing, and future-focused technologies. The Deputy Chief ensures that innovation aligns with Detroit’s values—equity, community benefit, and opportunity for longtime residents—and collaborates across economic development, workforce, planning, and education systems to build a modern economic ecosystem that is both competitive and inclusive.

This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:

• Develop Detroit’s innovation and emerging-industry strategy under the Mayor’s economic-opportunity agenda

• Strengthen partnerships with universities, research institutions, federal agencies, venture networks, and industry leaders

• Attract high-growth industries and national innovation partners to Detroit through policy, incentives, and ecosystem design

• Expand the city’s innovation portfolio into sectors including mobility, EV and battery technology, AI, robotics, defense, chip manufacturing, biotech, and pharmaceuticals

• Ensure Detroiters benefit directly from emerging industries through apprenticeships, training pipelines, and local hiring strategies

• Align innovation strategy with small-business growth, neighborhood opportunity, and equitable development

• Integrate innovation goals into cross-departmental initiatives with economic development, workforce, planning, housing, and neighborhood leadership

• Promote Detroit as a nationally competitive destination for startups, research, advanced manufacturing, and tech investment

• Leverage federal, state, and philanthropic resources to fund emerging-industry initiatives and innovation infrastructure

This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Develop and implement Detroit’s emerging-industry strategy in alignment with the Mayor’s economic development agenda

• Lead partnerships with corporations, universities, labs, venture funds, and federal agencies to expand Detroit’s innovation ecosystem

• Identify, attract, and support high-growth industries seeking to expand or locate in Detroit

• Design policy frameworks and incentive tools that make Detroit competitive for advanced industries while ensuring community benefit

• Coordinate with Detroit at Work, employers, unions, and training providers to build workforce pathways into high-growth sectors

• Support development of innovation districts, testbeds, and industry clusters across the city

• Advance Detroit’s mobility, EV, and advanced manufacturing portfolios

• Expand emerging-industry initiatives into fields such as defense, AI, robotics, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and chip technology

• Collaborate with the Chief of Neighborhood Economic Development to ensure innovation strengthens neighborhood economies and supports local entrepreneurs

• Integrate strategies with housing, planning, and land-use leadership to support innovation-aligned development

• Represent the Mayor in regional, state, federal, and industry forums focused on innovation, competitiveness, and economic transformation

• Monitor industry trends, conduct research and analysis, and make policy recommendations that keep Detroit ahead of national shifts

• Secure and manage federal, state, philanthropic, and private investment for innovation programs and infrastructure

• Prepare briefings, memos, presentations, and strategic updates for the Mayor and senior leadership

• Ensure transparency, equity, and community benefit in all industry-partnership and development initiatives

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, business, engineering, technology, or a related field; advanced degree preferred

• Seven or more years of experience in economic development, innovation strategy, technology policy, or advanced-industry ecosystem building

• Deep understanding of emerging-industry trends including mobility, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, AI, robotics, biotech, pharmaceuticals, defense, and semiconductor industries

• Experience working with research institutions, venture ecosystems, federal agencies, and industry partners

• Proven track record attracting or growing innovation-driven businesses or industry clusters

• Experience designing incentives, policy tools, or economic-development frameworks that support industry growth

• Strong familiarity with workforce development, employer partnerships, and training pipeline development

• Ability to align cross-agency efforts across economic development, workforce, planning, and neighborhood systems

• Strong analytical capacity, strategic thinking, and policy-development skills

• Exceptional relationship-building skills with corporate partners, community leaders, public-sector partners, and philanthropic organizations

• Commitment to equity, economic inclusion, community benefit, and resident-centered opportunity

• Strong knowledge of Detroit’s economic landscape, neighborhoods, and workforce ecosystem preferred

• Ability to work in fast-paced, politically sensitive environments with sound judgment and discretion

Rate of Pay:  $135,000 – $179,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE

Deputy Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer

ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION 

Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.

As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.

ABOUT THE OFFICE  

The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) serves as Detroit’s centralized financial management system, responsible for safeguarding public resources, ensuring fiscal integrity, and enabling the city’s long-term financial stability. The Office of the Treasury plays a central role in this mission by collecting, managing, investing, and disbursing all City funds; administering Detroit’s tax systems; supporting major capital investments; and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local financial regulations. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s commitment to transparency, ethical governance, and responsible stewardship, the Treasury is a cornerstone of public trust and a key driver of Detroit’s continued financial recovery and growth.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Deputy Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer is Detroit’s senior financial steward for the Office of the Treasury, responsible for overseeing the City’s cash, investments, tax administration, revenue operations, and debt-management functions. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer provides executive leadership for citywide revenue collection, property-tax administration, income-tax operations, customer service functions, cash management, and debt-financing strategies that support Detroit’s long-term capital needs.

This role is essential to advancing the Sheffield Administration’s priorities of ethical public finance, transparent practices, resident-centered customer service, and accountable stewardship of public assets. The Treasurer ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, supports financial policies that strengthen Detroit’s fiscal position, and works closely with executive leadership, City Council, state partners, rating agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure Detroit remains financially strong, credible, and well-managed.

This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:

• Strengthen resident-centered financial operations and improve accessibility of tax and revenue services

• Ensure full transparency and accountability in all Treasury functions, advancing the administration’s ethics and good-government standards

• Support equitable revenue systems that reduce burdens for longtime Detroiters while maintaining strong fiscal health

• Enhance Detroit’s debt-management and capital-financing strategies to support neighborhood infrastructure and long-term growth

• Modernize Treasury systems and processes to improve accuracy, efficiency, and timely financial reporting

• Strengthen collaboration with state Treasury partners and ensure Detroit’s compliance with all relevant financial laws and mandates

• Advance customer-service improvements for property owners, taxpayers, seniors, and small businesses

• Support long-term revenue forecasting and financial policies that protect Detroit’s stability and resilienceThis description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Provide executive leadership over all Treasury operations, including tax administration, cash management, debt management, revenue collections, and customer service

• Oversee the accurate billing, collection, accounting, and distribution of property-tax revenues in accordance with state law

• Manage operations of the Detroit Taxpayer Service Center, ensuring high-quality support for residents and Detroit property owners

• Lead income-tax administration, compliance, discovery, and reporting in partnership with the State of Michigan

• Serve as the City’s primary banker, ensuring the safekeeping, liquidity, and compliant investment of all cash assets

• Direct enforcement and compliance actions across various tax types, including utility-user taxes, wagering taxes, and delinquent property taxes

• Oversee citywide billing, delinquent-revenue collection systems, and clearance issuance for vendors and residents

• Lead the Treasury’s debt-management portfolio, ensuring compliance with all covenants and disclosures while supporting issuances and updates with municipal advisors and rating agencies

• Guide financial reporting and monthly revenue accounting, including contributions to annual audits and financial statements

• Monitor Treasury’s organizational structure, operational efficiency, staffing assignments, and administrative systems

• Develop and implement Division goals, policies, service levels, and resource-allocation priorities

• Communicate regularly with executive leadership, City Council, departments, and external partners regarding Treasury activities and financial impacts

• Represent the Treasury before legislative bodies, external agencies, financial institutions, and public stakeholders

• Serve in ex-officio roles on major retirement system boards and financial oversight committees

• Ensure Treasury operations align with Detroit’s Charter, state laws, federal regulations, and the administration’s ethical standards

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, economics, or related field required; advanced degree or CPA strongly preferred

• Progressive leadership experience in government finance, treasury management, revenue administration, or large-scale public-sector financial operations

• Proven track record overseeing tax systems, cash management, debt portfolios, or major municipal finance functions

• Experience managing complex budgets, financial controls, compliance systems, and multi-source revenue environments

• Deep knowledge of municipal finance, investment laws, debt markets, and public-sector financial reporting

• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams of executives, managers, and financial professionals

• Exceptional communication skills, capable of explaining complex financial information to diverse audiences

• Ability to collaborate with City Council, state partners, financial institutions, philanthropic partners, and community organizations

• Strong commitment to transparency, integrity, ethical governance, and resident-centered service delivery

• Detroit experience or deep knowledge of municipal finance in legacy cities highly valued; Detroit-based candidates encouraged to apply

Rate of Pay:  $135,679 - $193 006 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.

Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.

APPLY HERE