Chief Operating Officer

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 Operating Officer (COO) oversees day-to-day municipal operations and works across Detroit’s service departments to ensure that residents receive high-quality, reliable, and responsive services. The office oversees Public Works, General Services, Transportation, Information Technology, and other operational units to oversee demolition and construction activity, strengthen performance, modernize systems, and support the Mayor’s commitment to a government that listens, heals, and delivers.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Chief Operating Officer serves as the senior executive responsible for coordinating Detroit’s operational departments and advancing citywide performance. Reporting directly to the Mayor, the COO leads strategic planning, service delivery improvements, operational excellence initiatives, and cross-departmental coordination. The role provides executive leadership to department directors, ensures consistent implementation of citywide policies, drives modernization efforts, and represents the Mayor with internal and external stakeholders on operational matters.

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 leadership and direction to Detroit’s operational departments to ensure alignment with the Mayor’s priorities.

• Develop and implement citywide operational systems and performance standards that promote efficiency, accountability, and customer service.

• Oversee interdepartmental coordination to address cross-functional challenges and improve service delivery.

• Support the Mayor in executive and administrative duties, including evaluation of departmental management and operations.

• Lead operational planning, resource allocation, workforce deployment, and performance management initiatives.

• Oversee departmental budgets, monitor spending, and recommend adjustments to support service improvements.

• Advance major operational projects such as technology upgrades, infrastructure optimization, and resident-facing improvements.

• Represent the Mayor in meetings with City Council, residents, business leaders, labor partners, and regional agencies.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing municipal operations.

• Build a culture of accountability, integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement across operational departments.

• Supervise senior operational leaders and support leadership development across City operations.

• Prepare executive-level reports, operational analyses, and communication materials for the Mayor.

• Facilitate committees, task forces, and cross-departmental teams addressing operational priorities.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Mayor.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, law, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.

• Five (5) or more years of senior management experience in a municipal government or equally complex organization, with responsibility for multiple divisions or service lines.

• Deep operational knowledge of government processes, including service delivery systems, infrastructure, facilities, IT, fleet management, and inter-departmental coordination.

• Proven skills in performance management, process improvement, organizational development, and operational strategic planning.

• Strong financial acumen, including direct experience managing large departmental budgets, overseeing resource allocation, and monitoring operational spending.

• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with City leadership (Mayor, Council), department directors, labor unions, community stakeholders, regional partners, and business leaders.

• Exceptional decision-making and judgment capabilities; ability to analyze complex issues, make data-informed recommendations, and lead through politically sensitive situations.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of executive-level reports, presentations, and briefings for the Mayor and external audiences.

• Track record of working successfully with diverse communities and implementing resident-centered service delivery models that advance equity and inclusion.

• High emotional intelligence, professionalism, adaptability, and capacity to lead teams through change and deliver operational excellence in a dynamic city environment.

• Working knowledge of Detroit, its communities, and local government, or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge.

Rate of Pay: $166,516 - $200,000 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

Coalitions and Advocacy Coordinator - Office of the Mayor

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 Mayor leads Detroit’s citywide agenda to strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and ensure every resident’s voice shapes the future of the city. Within this structure, the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs oversees programs, departments, and initiatives that bring government directly to Detroiters—amplifying community voices, supporting block clubs and neighborhood associations, and ensuring that resident feedback meaningfully influences policy, service delivery, and major decision-making. The Coalitions and Advocacy Coordinator is housed within this neighborhood-centered leadership vertical and plays a crucial role in building and sustaining relationships across community coalitions, advisory boards, special-population liaisons, and resident-led networks that anchor Detroit’s civic and neighborhood life.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Coalitions and Advocacy Coordinator serves as the Administration’s central organizer and relationship engine for resident-driven input, cross-neighborhood coalitions, advisory councils, and special-population engagement. Reporting to the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs, the Coordinator ensures that resident concerns, community ideas, and neighborhood priorities are gathered, synthesized, and elevated into actionable recommendations that influence housing, economic development, mobility, public safety, and other major citywide initiatives. The role requires a leader with deep community relationships, experience working inside Detroit’s neighborhood ecosystem, strong facilitation and communication skills, and the ability to translate community feedback into accurate, timely, and actionable insights for senior leadership. The Coordinator also supports the development and management of diverse advisory boards, liaisons, and coalitions to ensure that Detroit’s residents feel directly connected to—and directly heard by—the Mayor’s Office.

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

• Strengthen Detroit’s block clubs, neighborhood associations, and resident-driven networks as core partners in City decision-making

• Ensure that resident input meaningfully informs housing development, neighborhood planning, economic development, and program design

• Support the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs in building inclusive coalitions across youth, seniors, immigrant communities, returning citizens, and disability-advocacy groups

• Build and maintain advisory boards and special-population liaisons that reflect Detroit’s diversity and lived experience

• Advance the Mayor’s commitment to dignity, transparency, and resident participation in government

• Ensure that neighborhood insight and community data are systematically collected, evaluated, and incorporated into policy, programs, and service improvements

• Strengthen communication channels between residents, City departments, and executive leadership to ensure feedback loops are closed

• Promote equitable representation across neighborhoods, ensuring that historically underrepresented voices are centered in major City initiativesThis 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 maintain citywide coalitions, advisory groups, and community councils that reflect Detroit’s neighborhoods and diverse resident populations

• Coordinate liaisons and neighborhood representatives to gather resident feedback and communicate community needs to executive leadership

• Support the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs in building an integrated engagement strategy across neighborhoods, special-population groups, nonprofit partners, and civic stakeholders

• Organize public meetings, listening sessions, and community roundtables to gather input on major City policies, development projects, neighborhood initiatives, and municipal services

• Document, synthesize, and elevate resident concerns, ideas, and priorities into actionable summaries and recommendations for senior leadership

• Partner with City departments to ensure that feedback collected from residents informs policy development, program design, and service-delivery improvements

• Track and maintain records of coalition membership, engagement activities, and community outcomes to support strategic planning and reporting

• Develop relationships with community leaders, block clubs, neighborhood associations, faith-based institutions, youth groups, and advocacy organizations to strengthen outreach

• Coordinate communication with residents through multiple channels to ensure accessible, transparent, and timely updates on City programs and initiatives

• Identify gaps in community representation and design new engagement strategies to ensure equity in participation across all neighborhoods

• Support crisis-response and rapid-engagement needs when emergent issues affect neighborhoods or resident groups

• Represent the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs and the Mayor’s Office at meetings, events, and community engagements as needed

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, urban studies, social work, community development, or a related field

• Three to five years of community engagement, neighborhood organizing, advocacy coordination, or coalition-building experience

• Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community networks, and civic landscape

• Experience facilitating meetings, managing advisory groups, and coordinating diverse stakeholders

• Demonstrated ability to synthesize community feedback and translate it into clear, actionable insights

• Strong communication, relationship-building, and cross-cultural collaboration skills

• Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, community-centered environments requiring diplomacy and sound judgment

• Experience working with elected officials, government agencies, or large nonprofits preferred

• Commitment to equity, community voice, transparency, and resident-centered governance

Rate of Pay:  $80,000-120,000 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

Director of Media 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 Media Services is Detroit’s citywide hub for public broadcasting, digital storytelling, and resident-facing information. The division ensures that Detroiters have timely, accessible, engaging content that highlights government services, celebrates neighborhood progress, and strengthens trust between residents and their city. Media Services manages government-access television, digital media content, event documentation, and the city’s primary multimedia production capabilities. Under Mayor Sheffield’s administration, Media Services plays a transformational role—leveraging Detroit’s creativity, cultural identity, and storytelling power to create a more informed, connected, and civically engaged city. The office works closely with the Mayor’s communications team, city departments, community leaders, and partners across Detroit’s neighborhoods to advance a narrative rooted in transparency, equity, and resident-centered governance.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Director of Media Services is responsible for leading the full scope of the Media Services Division and ensuring Detroiters receive clear, compelling, and accessible information about their government. Reporting to the Senior Director of Communications, the Director oversees all broadcast operations, digital content production, creative strategy, staff supervision, and workflow management for the city’s multimedia ecosystem. This leader sets the creative vision for citywide communication, ensures alignment with the Mayor’s priorities, and guides a high-performing multimedia team—including videographers, editors, producers, digital content staff, and the Deputy Director. The role requires a visionary storyteller with strong operational management skills, the ability to work in fast-paced environments, and a commitment to advancing the Sheffield Administration’s values of transparency, dignity-centered communication, and community empowerment through modern, inclusive media.

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

• Elevate a citywide transparency agenda through high-quality digital and broadcast content

• Strengthen resident access to information using modern storytelling tools and community-centered communication

• Amplify the Sheffield Administration’s priorities—housing, neighborhood revitalization, economic mobility, public health, and safety—across all media platforms

• Ensure Detroit’s diverse cultural identities and neighborhood voices are represented authentically and consistently

• Modernize broadcasting, production workflows, and digital communication infrastructure

• Increase public understanding of city services and civic opportunities through accessible media

• Support the Mayor’s narrative strategy by producing content that uplifts residents, celebrates community progress, and strengthens trust in 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: 

• Lead all operations, creative strategy, and staff management for the Media Services Division

• Set the vision for broadcast and digital content that reflects Detroit’s communities, culture, and the Mayor’s priorities

• Oversee production of video, photography, graphics, livestreams, and multimedia content for government-access television and digital channels

• Ensure alignment with the Mayor’s messaging priorities by collaborating closely with the Director of Communications and the Mayor’s senior team

• Manage daily workflows, production calendars, staffing assignments, and content approvals across multiple media platforms

• Develop and enforce standards for content quality, accessibility, branding, and inclusive communication

• Supervise creative and technical personnel, including videographers, editors, producers, and digital content teams

• Direct planning and logistics for event coverage, press conferences, major announcements, neighborhood engagements, and public forums

• Oversee the operation and maintenance of production facilities, equipment, and digital archives

• Strengthen operational efficiency through updated systems, workflow improvements, and technology modernization

• Represent the Media Services Division in strategic planning meetings, interdepartmental collaborations, and public-facing communications work

• Build partnerships with community organizations, media outlets, creative professionals, and cultural institutions to expand storytelling reach

• Ensure all content supports Detroit's goal of building trust, uplifting resident stories, and showcasing government accessibility

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, media production, journalism, public relations, film, or a related field preferred

• Seven or more years of experience in multimedia production, digital strategy, broadcast management, or public-sector communications

• Demonstrated leadership experience managing creative or technical teams in fast-paced environments

• Expert proficiency in video production, editing software, digital media tools, and broadcast operations

• Exceptional storytelling, writing, editing, and communication skills

• Experience developing large-scale media strategies or managing public-facing digital platforms

• Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community dynamics, and cultural landscape preferred

• Ability to collaborate with senior government officials, community partners, and diverse stakeholders

• Strong organizational and project-management skills, with experience overseeing multiple deadlines

• Commitment to equity, accessibility, resident-centered communication, and inclusive representation

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and nontraditional hours for events, productions, and urgent communications needs

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.

Digital and Creative 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 Mayor’s Office is the executive nerve center of Detroit’s government, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s vision, shaping the public narrative, and maintaining direct lines of communication with residents. Within this office, the Digital & Creative Director plays a singular role: creating and managing all digital content that represents the Mayor—her voice, her priorities, her leadership, and her connection to the people of Detroit.

This position operates entirely within the Mayor’s communications ecosystem, separate from department-level public information. The role exists to ensure that the Mayor’s digital presence is authentic, modern, accessible, and deeply reflective of her community-first leadership style.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Digital & Creative Director is the Mayor’s dedicated creative strategist, responsible for shaping every aspect of her digital storytelling and public-facing image. This leader develops, produces, and manages all multimedia content that represents the Mayor—across platforms, formats, and audiences.

Operating with a high degree of independence, judgment, and creative rigor, the Director captures the Mayor’s day-to-day work, speech, priorities, and neighborhood presence, turning them into compelling narratives that resonate with Detroiters. The role requires speed, accuracy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to producing high-quality digital work that reflects the Mayor’s values and strengthens her relationship with residents.

The Director works closely with the Mayor, Chief of Staff, senior communications staff, and advance/scheduling teams to ensure content is strategically aligned, timely, and seamlessly integrated into the Mayor’s overall communications strategy.

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

• Developing a digital strategy that amplifies the Mayor’s message of equity, community healing, and resident-centered leadership.

• Building a strong, distinct personal brand for the Mayor that reflects her values, authenticity, and Detroit-first leadership style.

• Creating content that highlights the Mayor’s work in neighborhoods, her presence with residents, and her commitment to listening and delivering.

• Making high-quality digital information accessible to residents across platforms and devices.

• Elevating community voices, grassroots stories, and neighborhood experiences that reflect Detroit’s resilience and creativity.

• Ensuring the Mayor’s digital communication is timely, consistent, and fully aligned with her policy agenda.

• Using data, analytics, and audience insights to ensure content is impactful, relevant, and built around resident engagement.

• Supporting a modern, transparent, interactive digital presence that strengthens trust between the Mayor and the people of Detroit.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Lead all digital content creation for the Mayor, including photography, videography, graphics, captions, writing, and editing.

• Manage all official social-media platforms operated in the Mayor’s name and oversee content calendars and posting strategies.

• Develop a unique, coherent visual identity and brand voice exclusively for the Mayor.

• Provide real-time coverage at events, community meetings, press conferences, and neighborhood engagements.

• Translate the Mayor’s policies, speeches, and values into compelling digital narratives.

• Produce signature content series that highlight resident stories, neighborhood impact, and community-based leadership.

• Work closely with communications, scheduling, and advance teams to ensure digital content aligns with upcoming events, priorities, and messaging needs.

• Use analytics to refine content strategy and strengthen engagement across platforms.

• Manage creative workflows, including approvals, revisions, archiving, and content organization.

• Oversee outside creative collaborators as needed and ensure all work meets the Mayor’s brand and quality standards.

• Ensure the Mayor’s online presence is modern, accurate, consistent, and deeply rooted in Detroit’s culture, communities, and stories.

• Work extended and flexible hours based on the Mayor’s schedule.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Digital Media, Graphic Design, Marketing, Film, or a related field

• 3–5+ years of experience in digital content creation, social media management, multimedia production, or creative direction; political or campaign experience strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to shape the digital identity or brand of a public figure, elected official, or executive leader.

• Strong portfolio showcasing multimedia storytelling across platforms.

• Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, video-editing tools, photography, and design.

• Ability to work quickly, capture content in fast-moving environments, and deliver high-quality work under pressure.

• Excellent writing and copyediting skills tailored for social media and digital platforms.

• Experience managing executive-level communication workflows, approvals, and rapid-response content needs.

• Deep familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, culture, history, and community landscape.

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and nontraditional hours as required by the Mayor’s schedule.

Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,889 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

Chief Counsel - Office of the Mayor

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 Mayor serves as the executive leadership center of the City of Detroit, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s policy agenda, coordinating citywide strategy, and delivering service to neighborhoods and residents. The Chief Counsel leads the Mayor’s in‑house legal team and serves as principal legal advisor to the Mayor, senior leadership, and City departments. The office provides legal oversight, risk management, regulatory compliance, legislative review, contract negotiation, ethics guidance, litigation strategy, and interagency coordination. Under the Mayor‑Elect’s administration, legal guidance plays a critical role in promoting transparency, equity, neighborhood stabilization, and accountable public service. 

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Chief Counsel reports directly to the Mayor and serves as the administration’s top legal advisor, managing all major legal matters impacting the executive branch of the City. The Chief Counsel provides strategic legal guidance on legislation, policy development, intergovernmental agreements, contracts, public records, ethics, regulatory compliance, and litigation risk. This role requires a seasoned attorney with substantial municipal or governmental legal experience, strong judgment, political acumen, and the ability to lead in high-stakes, rapidly evolving environments. The Chief Counsel ensures that legal strategy supports equitable governance, sound decision‑making, and the effective delivery of services to residents.

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

• Ensuring that major policy initiatives—such as neighborhood revitalization, housing stability, public health, and economic opportunity—are supported by strong legal frameworks.

• Providing legal leadership that enables the City to negotiate major agreements, innovate in service delivery, and safeguard public assets.

• Advising the Mayor on transparency laws, ethics obligations, regulatory changes, and governance reforms.

• Coordinating legal strategy across departments, City Council, external partners, and state and federal agencies.Promoting proactive risk management, compliance, and equitable legal practices.

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 Mayor’s legal office, establish strategic priorities, and supervise senior legal staff.

• Advise the Mayor on legislation, executive orders, contracts, redevelopment agreements, public‑private partnerships, and procurement.

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, MOUs, land‑use agreements, and other legal instruments.

• Oversee compliance with state and federal laws, local ordinances, ethics standards, and transparency requirements.

• Serve as senior legal counsel for major initiatives involving housing, neighborhood development, public health, and infrastructure.

• Coordinate legal strategy with the Law Department, departmental attorneys, and outside counsel.

• Prepare legal briefings, decision memos, and strategic assessments for the Mayor and executive leadership.

• Monitor legal developments impacting the City’s operations and policy agenda.

• Strengthen legal frameworks supporting neighborhood‑driven development and equitable services.

Qualifications: 

• Member in good standing of the Michigan Bar and eligible to practice law in Michigan.

• At least ten years of legal experience, including significant municipal or governmental practice.

• Experience advising elected officials or senior executives in high‑stakes environments.

• Strong background in municipal law, contracts, procurement, land‑use, litigation management, and public‑sector governance.

• Exceptional judgment, communication, and leadership skills.

• Record of proactive risk management, strategic thinking, and organizational leadership.

• Commitment to equitable governance, neighborhood inclusion, and transparent operations.

• Experience in Detroit or a major urban municipal environment strongly preferred.

• Juris Doctor required; additional specialization preferred.

Rate of Pay: $170,000-$200,000 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

Administrative Assistant - Office of the Mayor

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 Mayor serves as the central hub of Detroit’s executive leadership and is responsible for delivering responsive, resident-centered governance that advances the priorities of Mayor-Elect Sheffield. The office manages high-impact programs, constituent service, citywide communication, and cross-departmental coordination that ensures Detroiters experience government that is accessible, transparent, and accountable. As the first point of contact for many residents, partners, and stakeholders, the Mayor’s Office plays a critical role in shaping public trust, responding to community needs, and ensuring that the administration’s work reflects the voices and priorities of Detroiters across all neighborhoods.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Administrative Assistant provides frontline operational and administrative support to the Office of the Mayor, ensuring that residents, partners, and internal teams receive timely and professional assistance. This role manages daily reception operations, answers phones, greets visitors, routes inquiries, and supports the workflow of senior staff by coordinating communications, preparing documents, and ensuring tasks move efficiently across the office. The Administrative Assistant represents the Mayor’s Office with professionalism, warmth, and a resident-focused spirit—helping ensure every interaction is responsive, courteous, and aligned with the administration’s commitment to exceptional public service.

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

• Ensure residents receive timely, accurate, and respectful responses when contacting the Mayor’s Office

• Support a high-access, resident-centered culture within the Mayor’s Office

• Improve intake, routing, and follow-up processes for constituent concerns and service requests

• Strengthen communication channels between residents, city departments, and the Mayor’s Office

• Support transparency and responsiveness in alignment with the Sheffield Administration’s commitment to dignity and trust

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: 

• Answer phones, greet visitors, manage the reception area, and serve as the first point of contact for the public

• Route inquiries, service requests, and concerns to appropriate staff or departments and ensure timely follow-up

• Provide administrative support including scheduling assistance, document preparation, filing, and data entry

• Support constituent-service tracking systems and help maintain accurate logs of calls, issues, and resolutions

• Assist with preparation of meeting materials, briefings, correspondence, and internal communication

• Coordinate incoming mail, deliveries, and document flow throughout the office

• Support special projects, public-facing events, and community-engagement efforts as assigned

• Maintain a professional, welcoming, and organized office environment

• Represent the Mayor’s Office with exceptional customer service, confidentiality, and discretion

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred

• One to three years of administrative, front-desk, receptionist, or customer-service experience

• Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills

• Ability to manage sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism

• Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service and resident-centered interaction

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email systems, and basic database tools

• Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, city services, and community environment preferred

• Ability to remain calm, patient, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment

• Strong judgment, reliability, and willingness to support a wide range of office needs

Rate of Pay:  $40,000 – $70,000 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.

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 Mayor serves as the central hub of Detroit’s executive leadership and is responsible for delivering responsive, resident-centered governance that advances the priorities of Mayor-Elect Sheffield. The office manages high-impact programs, constituent service, citywide communication, and cross-departmental coordination that ensures Detroiters experience government that is accessible, transparent, and accountable. As the first point of contact for many residents, partners, and stakeholders, the Mayor’s Office plays a critical role in shaping public trust, responding to community needs, and ensuring that the administration’s work reflects the voices and priorities of Detroiters across all neighborhoods.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Administrative Assistant provides frontline operational and administrative support to the Office of the Mayor, ensuring that residents, partners, and internal teams receive timely and professional assistance. This role manages daily reception operations, answers phones, greets visitors, routes inquiries, and supports the workflow of senior staff by coordinating communications, preparing documents, and ensuring tasks move efficiently across the office. The Administrative Assistant represents the Mayor’s Office with professionalism, warmth, and a resident-focused spirit—helping ensure every interaction is responsive, courteous, and aligned with the administration’s commitment to exceptional public service.

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

• Ensure residents receive timely, accurate, and respectful responses when contacting the Mayor’s Office

• Support a high-access, resident-centered culture within the Mayor’s Office

• Improve intake, routing, and follow-up processes for constituent concerns and service requests

• Strengthen communication channels between residents, city departments, and the Mayor’s Office

• Support transparency and responsiveness in alignment with the Sheffield Administration’s commitment to dignity and trust

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: 

• Answer phones, greet visitors, manage the reception area, and serve as the first point of contact for the public

• Route inquiries, service requests, and concerns to appropriate staff or departments and ensure timely follow-up

• Provide administrative support including scheduling assistance, document preparation, filing, and data entry

• Support constituent-service tracking systems and help maintain accurate logs of calls, issues, and resolutions

• Assist with preparation of meeting materials, briefings, correspondence, and internal communication

• Coordinate incoming mail, deliveries, and document flow throughout the office

• Support special projects, public-facing events, and community-engagement efforts as assigned

• Maintain a professional, welcoming, and organized office environment

• Represent the Mayor’s Office with exceptional customer service, confidentiality, and discretion

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred

• One to three years of administrative, front-desk, receptionist, or customer-service experience

• Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills

• Ability to manage sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism

• Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service and resident-centered interaction

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email systems, and basic database tools

• Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, city services, and community environment preferred

• Ability to remain calm, patient, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment

• Strong judgment, reliability, and willingness to support a wide range of office needs

Rate of Pay:  $40,000 – $70,000 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