move detroit forward & join our team
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. 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.
We’ve sorted our open positions by different policy areas and themes that reflect the new Administrations priorities. Find the category that best reflects your experience and areas of interest to view the available positions.
Director of Regional Partnerships
Serves as Detroit’s chief architect of intergovernmental relationships across Southeast Michigan.
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 citywide strategy, policy coordination, and intergovernmental engagement to advance the well-being of Detroit residents and strengthen regional collaboration. Detroit’s future is deeply connected to the broader Southeast Michigan region—its transit systems, economic corridors, housing markets, environmental conditions, and public-health infrastructure. The Mayor’s Office works closely with local municipalities, county governments, and regional authorities to ensure Detroit’s interests are represented, resident needs are elevated, and shared challenges are addressed collaboratively. The Office champions an equity-centered vision for the region in which Detroit’s growth, stability, and prosperity are advanced through coordinated regional policy, shared resources, and long-term partnership.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Director of Regional Partnerships serves as Detroit’s chief architect of intergovernmental relationships across Southeast Michigan. The Director builds and maintains strategic partnerships with hyper-local municipal partners—including Highland Park and Hamtramck—as well as county leaders in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Monroe. The role leads cross-jurisdictional strategy to advance shared priorities such as public transit, economic mobility, federal-resource alignment, environmental health, emergency preparedness, and quality-of-life improvements for Detroiters and neighboring communities. The Director is responsible for representing the Mayor’s interests in regional conversations, shaping joint initiatives, coordinating high-level negotiations, and ensuring that Detroit is positioned as a strong, collaborative regional leader. This position requires a relationship-driven, strategic thinker with deep intergovernmental experience, political acumen, and a commitment to advancing Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s resident-centered and equity-driven agenda.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Strengthening long-term partnerships with Highland Park, Hamtramck, and neighboring municipalities
Building coordinated strategies with Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Monroe counties
Advancing regional transit planning and collaboration to improve mobility for Detroiters
Aligning federal and state resources through joint regional initiatives and advocacy
Supporting coordinated public-health, environmental, and emergency-response strategies across jurisdictions
Driving regional cooperation on economic development, workforce pipelines, and industrial growth
Elevating Detroit’s interests in regional decision-making bodies, committees, and coalitions
Improving cross-jurisdictional data sharing, communication, and service alignment
Ensuring regional strategies reflect Detroit’s needs, values, and equity commitments
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 Detroit’s regional partnership strategy and represent the Mayor in multi-jurisdictional engagements
Build and maintain long-term relationships with neighboring municipalities and county leadership
Coordinate regional policy initiatives related to transit, infrastructure, economic development, public health, housing, and emergency preparedness
Identify shared opportunities for joint applications for federal and state funding
Organize and lead regional convenings, working groups, and strategy sessions
Develop policy recommendations for the Mayor based on regional trends, opportunities, and risks
Monitor regional legislative and policy actions and assess implications for Detroit
Collaborate with city departments to align internal strategies with regional priorities
Support transparent communication and reporting on regional initiatives to community stakeholders
Prepare briefings, strategic analyses, memos, and presentations for the Mayor and senior leadership
Represent the City in regional boards, task forces, meetings, and committees
Manage complex relationships requiring diplomacy, negotiation, and coalition-building
Advance equity-focused regional approaches that strengthen outcomes for Detroit residents
Ensure that partnership efforts are culturally competent, community-informed, and grounded in Detroit’s values
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, urban planning, public policy, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
At least seven years of intergovernmental affairs, regional policy, municipal leadership, or public-sector partnership experience
Demonstrated success building and sustaining intergovernmental or regional coalitions
Strong understanding of Southeast Michigan’s governmental landscape, political dynamics, regional authorities, and municipal structures
Experience in policy analysis, strategic planning, negotiation, and interagency coordination
Exceptional relationship-building skills with elected officials, county executives, municipal leaders, and community stakeholders
Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex regional issues into clear recommendations
Commitment to equity, regional collaboration, and resident-centered governance
Ability to navigate sensitive political environments and represent the Mayor with professionalism
Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, history, economic context, and public-sector systems
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments
Rate of Pay: $86,201 - $143,872 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.
Director - Office of Youth Affairs
Serves as the Mayor’s chief advisor and senior strategist on all matters impacting young people across Detroit.
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 Youth Affairs serves as Detroit’s central hub for elevating youth voice, coordinating youth-focused initiatives, and ensuring young Detroiters have a direct line to the Mayor’s Office. Rooted in Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s commitment to building a city where every young person feels valued, supported, and seen, the office works across departments, schools, youth-serving nonprofits, neighborhood groups, and civic partners to create pathways to leadership, opportunity, and wellbeing. The Office of Youth Affairs leads the city’s effort to embed youth perspectives into policy development, program design, and decision-making, while building systems that strengthen safety, belonging, and opportunity for Detroit’s next generation.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of the Office of Youth Affairs serves as the Mayor’s chief advisor and senior strategist on all matters impacting young people across Detroit. Reporting directly to the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs the Director leads a citywide effort to engage youth authentically, integrate youth experience into municipal policy, and expand access to programs that improve academic, social, emotional, and economic outcomes. The Director works closely with Detroit Public Schools Community District, charter schools, youth-serving organizations, recreation and community centers, public safety agencies, and philanthropic partners to coordinate initiatives and elevate youth leadership. This role requires a leader deeply connected to Detroit’s neighborhoods, skilled in coalition-building, and committed to creating lasting systems that help young people thrive.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Expand youth engagement systems that bring young Detroiters directly into the policy-making process
Build a Mayor’s Youth Advisory Cabinet representing every district in the city
Ensure city programs, investments, and initiatives incorporate youth voice and youth-centered design
Strengthen partnerships with DPSCD, charter networks, after-school programs, and youth-serving nonprofits
Support strategies that improve public safety, conflict resolution, and violence-prevention programming for youth
Coordinate citywide youth opportunity pipelines including internships, summer jobs, mentorship, and leadership programs
Increase access to culturally responsive mental-health supports and wellness resources
Ensure recreation centers, libraries, and neighborhood institutions serve as safe, supportive youth spaces
Advance equity-driven strategies that improve outcomes for youth most impacted by poverty, trauma, or systemic barriers
Integrate youth feedback into economic mobility, housing, transportation, digital access, and public-health initiatives
Strengthen family support and intergenerational connections that help stabilize neighborhoods
Lead communications efforts to elevate youth stories, youth leadership, and youth impact across Detroit
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 City’s youth engagement and youth-policy strategy
Build and manage the Office of Youth Affairs and its programmatic priorities
Develop and maintain partnerships with DPSCD, charter schools, universities, nonprofits, and foundations
Organize youth advisory bodies, leadership councils, and district-based youth engagement structures
Design initiatives that expand academic, social, and economic opportunities for youth
Coordinate youth-serving efforts across departments including Health, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, and Neighborhoods
Guide policy development that centers youth experience and improves outcomes across systems
Serve as the City’s lead representative at youth-focused events, convenings, and intergovernmental meetings
Manage grants, budgets, performance metrics, and reporting for youth initiatives
Develop communication strategies that highlight youth voices and the administration’s youth agenda
Respond to emerging youth issues and coordinate rapid solutions across agencies
Implement evaluation and data-tracking systems to assess impact and improve program performance
Ensure Detroit’s youth-serving programs align with the administration’s equity, safety, and opportunity goals
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, education, social work, public administration, or related field preferred
Seven or more years of experience in youth development, education, community engagement, social services, or public administration
Track record of building and managing youth-centered programs or policies
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s youth-serving organizations, DPSCD, and community landscapes
Experience working directly with young people in leadership, mentoring, engagement, or advocacy settings
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with government agencies, schools, nonprofits, and philanthropic partners
Strong understanding of youth-focused data, outcomes, and evidence-based practices
Experience managing budgets, grants, program evaluation, and performance measurement
Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills
Demonstrated commitment to equity, trauma-informed practice, and community-centered decision-making
Ability to navigate politically sensitive issues with tact, discretion, and sound judgment
Capacity to work evenings and weekends as needed for youth events and community engagement
Rate of Pay: $80,000– $100,000 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.
Director - Office of Senior Citizen Affairs
Serves as the citywide senior-services coordinator and advocate
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 Neighborhoods (DON) is the City of Detroit’s frontline connection to residents, delivering responsive service, helping residents navigate city systems, and ensuring neighborhood needs inform city decision-making. Within this mission, supporting Detroit’s seniors has become a key priority. Many older residents live in large senior buildings, rely on fixed incomes, and face challenges related to safety, building conditions, city services, health access, and social isolation. The office works across all neighborhoods and collaborates with community partners, service providers, and city departments to ensure seniors receive the support, respect, and care they deserve.
Under the Sheffield Administration, the office emphasizes dignity, equity, and inclusion for seniors, with a commitment to improving living conditions, reducing displacement risk, strengthening community ties, and safeguarding the welfare of older Detroiters.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs reports directly to the Mayor’s Office (or Chief of Staff) and serves as the citywide senior-services coordinator and advocate. The Director sets strategy, policies, and operational oversight for senior housing, senior-building support, outreach to older residents, coordination of services (housing repair, health, social support), and partnerships with nonprofit, faith-based, and community organizations serving seniors.
The role demands a leader with deep commitment to seniors’ rights and dignity, strong management and coordination abilities, experience in housing or social services administration, and a track record of collaborating with public agencies and community stakeholders. The Director ensures that senior buildings receive attention, that seniors’ concerns are addressed, that supportive services are delivered equitably, and that aging Detroiters are represented in policy, housing, and neighborhood planning decisions.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure that Detroit’s seniors have safe, stable, and affordable housing, including maintenance, repair, and access to services.
Advance senior-building rehabilitation and home-repair programs to preserve quality housing stock for older residents.
Coordinate supportive services — health, social work, mobility, utilities assistance — to address the holistic needs of seniors across neighborhoods.
Advocate for senior-centered policies at the city level, ensuring seniors’ voices are heard in housing, public works, land bank, and community development processes.
Partner with nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, and community stakeholders to deliver senior services and build supportive networks.
Promote equity, inclusion, and dignity for all senior Detroiters, with attention to affordability, accessibility, healthcare, and social connection.
Support inter-departmental collaboration to align senior affairs with housing, public health, planning, community development, and public safety.
Monitor and respond to emerging challenges affecting seniors — housing instability, displacement, health crises, aging in place — with responsive strategies and programs.
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 a comprehensive citywide senior-services strategy that integrates housing, social services, health, community engagement, and aging support.
Oversee programs for senior housing repair, building maintenance support, rehabilitation, and code enforcement coordination for senior-occupied buildings.
Manage outreach efforts to connect seniors with services, benefits, and resources including healthcare, mobility assistance, utilities relief, and social programs.
Coordinate with the city’s housing, land-bank, public-works, public-health, and community-development departments to ensure senior needs are embedded in city planning and service delivery.
Build and maintain partnerships with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, community groups, and senior-serving agencies to expand the scope and reach of senior services.
Advocate on behalf of seniors in city policies, development plans, land-use decisions, housing strategies, and funding priorities.
Monitor senior-building conditions, respond to complaints or issues, coordinate inspections, and facilitate repairs or interventions for senior-occupied housing.
Ensure transparent communication with seniors, senior organizations, and community partners regarding available services, programs, and city support.
Develop data-tracking, reporting, and performance metrics to assess impact of senior programs and guide continuous improvement.
Prepare policy recommendations, strategic plans, funding proposals, and budget requests to support senior affairs initiatives.
Represent the City at community meetings, senior-center events, interagency collaborations, and public forums to promote senior welfare and inclusion.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, social work, urban planning, public policy, gerontology, or a related field.
At least five years of experience in housing, community development, social services administration, or programs focused on seniors, elderly populations, or vulnerable residents.
Proven ability to lead and manage programs involving housing rehabilitation, social service coordination, or community outreach.
Strong knowledge of housing issues, senior housing challenges, aging-in-place policies, accessibility standards, and social service systems.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and empathy skills, with ability to engage seniors, community organizations, service providers, and city departments.
Demonstrated experience coordinating across multiple agencies, developing partnerships, managing complex operations, and advocating for vulnerable populations.
Commitment to equity, dignity, and inclusion for seniors and vulnerable residents.
Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, demographics, senior communities, and urban housing landscape preferred.
Ability to work flexible hours to address senior needs, community events, inspections, or emergency interventions.
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.
Director - Office of Labor Relations
Serves as the City’s chief labor negotiator and senior advisor on labor strategy, helping to shape a workplace culture that reflects Detroit’s values of fairness, respect, and shared responsibility.
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
Detroit’s Office of Labor Relations plays a critical role in building a fair, safe, and inclusive workplace for the thousands of public servants who keep the city running every day. The office leads labor negotiations, contract administration, union partnerships, and labor-management strategy with an explicit commitment to respecting worker voice, strengthening equity, and ensuring Detroit’s workforce is treated with dignity.
The office works closely with Human Resources, the Law Department, the Office of Budget, departmental leadership, and Detroit’s labor unions to address long-standing workplace challenges, improve conditions for frontline employees, and elevate transparency and accountability across all departments. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s administration, Labor Relations is positioned as a driver of a more collaborative, just and people-centered government—one that prioritizes fair compensation, safer workplaces, stronger employee protections, and meaningful labor-management partnerships that support both worker well-being and effective city operations.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Labor Relations serves as the City’s chief labor negotiator and senior advisor on labor strategy, helping to shape a workplace culture that reflects Detroit’s values of fairness, respect, and shared responsibility. The Director leads collective bargaining, contract administration, labor-management relations, and dispute resolution across all City departments, ensuring agreements and processes support both high-quality public service and a stable, supported workforce.
This role requires deep expertise in public-sector labor law, specifically Michigan law, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to build trusted, collaborative relationships with Detroit’s unions and labor partners. The Director provides strategic guidance to the Mayor, Chief of Staff, Human Resources, the Law Department, and department leaders on labor issues that affect staffing, service delivery, and organizational performance. A successful candidate brings a steady, solutions-oriented approach and a strong understanding of the City’s operational needs, workforce challenges, and long-standing labor dynamics.
This role will drive the administration’s labor priorities, including:
Strengthen collaborative labor-management relationships that support worker dignity, safety, and respect.
Ensure collective bargaining supports fair compensation, reliable staffing, and high-quality public-service delivery.
Enhance workplace equity through improved HR practices, accountability systems, and contract compliance.
Support workforce stabilization efforts, including hiring, retention, and labor-management planning.
Improve transparency in grievance processes, communication, and contract administration.
Align labor agreements with citywide initiatives such as youth employment, senior services, and public-safety reforms.
Provide proactive guidance on issues such as overtime, scheduling, job classifications, and training.
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:
Serve as the City of Detroit’s chief labor negotiator and lead all collective bargaining efforts.
Develop and implement labor-relations strategy consistent with administration priorities and labor law.
Oversee administration of all labor agreements, including interpretation, compliance, and implementation.
Direct the grievance process, including hearings, settlements, and arbitration.
Collaborate with the Law Department on MERC proceedings, arbitration cases, and prohibited-practice issues.
Advise the Mayor, Chief of Staff, Human Resources Director, and executive leadership on labor-relations impacts.
Build and maintain productive relationships with union leadership, stewards, and members.
Monitor developments in labor law, arbitration decisions, and MERC rulings to inform City strategy.
Support workforce planning, job-classification reviews, and updates to personnel policies.
Lead labor-management meetings, communication processes, and conflict-resolution efforts.
Oversee Labor Relations staff, budget, operations, and performance systems.
Represent the City at hearings, negotiations, mediations, and formal labor proceedings.
Qualifications:
Extensive experience in labor relations, Michigan labor law, collective bargaining, labor law, human resources, or a closely related field.
Deep knowledge of Detroit’s labor landscape, including historic and current relationships with the City’s unions, labor federations, stewards, and frontline worker networks.
Demonstrated experience working with Detroit-based labor partners, public-sector unions, and community or workforce organizations that shape the city’s labor ecosystem.
Understanding of how labor relations intersect with economic development, including experience with workforce development systems, job quality initiatives, or strategies that align labor, industry, and community needs.
Strong preference for candidates with lived or professional experience in Detroit, or substantial familiarity with the city’s municipal operations, labor history, and community dynamics.
Familiarity with public-sector labor law, arbitration, MERC procedures, contract interpretation, and grievance administration.
Proven track record serving as a chief negotiator or senior labor strategist for a large or complex organization.
Ability to interpret and apply labor statutes, case law, arbitration rulings, and collective bargaining agreements in fast-moving environments.
Experience supervising labor-relations teams, legal staff, or operational units.
Strong communication, relationship-building, and conflict-resolution skills rooted in respect for worker voice and collaborative problem solving.
Experience advising executive leadership on labor implications of policy, budgeting, staffing, and organizational transformation.
Commitment to equity, transparency, worker dignity, and high-quality public service.
Law degree preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
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
Director - Office of Contracting and Procurement
Serves as Detroit’s chief procurement executive and oversees all purchasing and contracting activities across city departments.
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 Contracting and Procurement ensures that the City of Detroit acquires goods and services in a way that is fair, transparent, efficient, and aligned with the City’s economic-equity goals. The office manages citywide purchasing, vendor engagement, contract compliance, competitive bidding, small-business support, and procurement policy development. Under the Sheffield Administration, the office plays a central role in strengthening opportunities for Detroit-based businesses, increasing transparency in public spending, improving procurement timelines, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars circulate back into neighborhoods and the local workforce.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Contracting and Procurement serves as Detroit’s chief procurement executive and oversees all purchasing and contracting activities across city departments. The Director provides strategic leadership for procurement modernization, implements reforms that expand access for small and Detroit-based businesses, and ensures compliance with city, state, and federal requirements. This role requires a leader with deep experience in public procurement, strong operational management skills, and a commitment to economic justice and equitable contracting.
The Director will drive efforts to increase local participation in city contracts, strengthen vendor accountability, and support Detroit’s neighborhood-based and minority-owned businesses through improved procurement processes, outreach, and technical assistance. The Director advises the Mayor and executive leadership on procurement strategy and ensures that contracting practices reflect the administration’s values of transparency, fairness, and community benefit.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Strengthening procurement systems to ensure Detroit-based, minority-owned, and small businesses have equitable access to city contracts.
Reducing unnecessary barriers to entry, simplifying bidding processes, and expanding technical assistance to local vendors.
Improving procurement timelines, workflows, approval processes, and contract-management systems to support efficient and accountable operations.
Establishing transparent reporting tools to track spending, vendor performance, local participation, and contract outcomes.
Enhancing compliance with ethical standards, competitive-bidding laws, conflict-of-interest rules, and public-spending mandates.
Coordinating with workforce, economic-development, neighborhood, and civil-rights teams to maximize community benefits and local hiring within contracts.
Supporting reforms that increase transparency in procurement decisions and build trust with residents, businesses, and community stakeholders.
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:
Oversee all citywide purchasing, contracting, and vendor-management functions, ensuring operational efficiency, fairness, and legal compliance.
Develop and implement procurement policies and reforms that expand opportunities for Detroit-based, minority-owned, and small businesses.
Lead outreach and engagement with local vendors, industry partners, neighborhood businesses, and community-based organizations to broaden participation in procurement processes.
Streamline bidding, evaluation, and award processes to reduce delays, improve transparency, and strengthen accountability.
Manage contract negotiations, competitive solicitations, RFP development, contract approvals, and vendor performance evaluations.
Collaborate with city departments to assess procurement needs, plan for major purchases, and ensure alignment between departmental goals and citywide procurement strategy.
Implement data-tracking systems, dashboards, and reporting tools to measure spend, track local-business participation, and improve decision making.
Ensure compliance with procurement regulations, ethical standards, federal grant requirements, and public-contracting laws.
Support staff development, training, and capacity-building to modernize Detroit’s procurement workforce and promote best practices.
Represent the City in public forums, business events, vendor meetings, and regional collaborations related to procurement and economic inclusion.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, supply-chain management, finance, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
Significant leadership experience in public-sector procurement, contracting, supply chain, or large-scale government purchasing.
Strong understanding of public-procurement law, competitive-bidding rules, grant compliance, contract structures, and vendor-management practices.
Demonstrated success implementing procurement reforms, improving operational efficiency, or reducing systemic barriers in contracting processes.
Experience working with small businesses, minority-owned businesses, or community-based economic-development organizations.
Proven ability to manage large budgets, oversee procurement teams, and coordinate contracting across multiple departments or agencies.
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills with vendors, stakeholders, department leaders, and elected officials.
Commitment to fairness, transparency, ethical governance, and promoting economic opportunity for Detroit residents and businesses.
Experience working in Detroit or another major urban environment strongly preferred.
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.
Director of Immigrant Affairs and Economic Inclusion
Leads the City’s strategy for immigrant integration, economic mobility, and inclusive neighborhood 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 Immigrant Affairs & Economic Inclusion is housed within the Mayor’s Office, under the Chief of Health, Human Services and Homelessness Prevention, and serves as Detroit’s central hub for advancing equity, access, and opportunity for immigrant and refugee residents. The Office works across neighborhoods, senior buildings, youth programs, community-violence prevention, faith-based institutions, district managers, and community coalitions to ensure immigrant communities are supported, protected, and meaningfully included in Detroit’s civic and economic life. The Office provides outreach, service navigation, language access, policy guidance, and partnership coordination—connecting immigrants to housing, jobs, small-business opportunities, legal resources, health supports, and culturally responsive city services. Rooted in the Mayor-Elect’s focus on dignity, community voice, and equitable access to opportunity, the Office helps ensure Detroit remains a welcoming, inclusive city where all residents can thrive and contribute.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Chief of Health, Human Services and Homelessness Prevention the Director of Immigrant Affairs & Economic Inclusion leads the City’s strategy for immigrant integration, economic mobility, and inclusive neighborhood services. This role directs programs that support immigrant and refugee residents, strengthens service networks with nonprofits and community partners, integrates immigrant needs into neighborhood planning and senior/youth support structures, and ensures that Detroit’s diverse communities have equitable access to city resources. The Director partners closely with health and human services programs and entities, district managers, Opportunity & Empowerment Hub Coordinators, the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs, the Office of Youth Affairs, faith-based liaisons, and advisory groups representing ethnic and cultural communities. The role requires a collaborative, community-centered leader with deep knowledge of immigrant experiences, strong policy and program-management skills, and an ability to elevate resident voices to shape policy, development decisions, and citywide initiatives.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Expanding immigrant access to housing, small-business opportunities, workforce pipelines, and city services
Strengthening language-access standards and culturally responsive communication across city departments
Building coordinated service networks with nonprofits, legal-aid providers, faith-based organizations, and ethnic-community leaders
Ensuring immigrant communities are integrated into neighborhood development, anti-displacement efforts, and community-safety strategies
Supporting immigrant-owned small businesses through mentorship, technical assistance, and pathways to city contracting
Developing policies that promote economic inclusion, reduce barriers, and strengthen protections for immigrant workers and families
Collaborating with District Managers, Opportunity & Empowerment Hub Coordinators, and senior/youth offices to embed immigrant supports throughout neighborhood-based service systems
Creating data-driven strategies to identify service gaps, track demographic trends, and guide equitable resource allocation
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 a citywide inclusion strategy that aligns immigrant affairs with Detroit’s neighborhood, housing, economic, and community-support priorities
Strengthen partnerships with immigrant service providers, legal-aid groups, ethnic and cultural organizations, and faith communities
Coordinate directly with District Managers, Special Population Liaisons, Opportunity & Empowerment Hub Coordinators, and the Offices of Youth and Senior Citizen Affairs
Oversee language-access planning, translation coordination, and culturally responsive communication supports
Support immigrant-owned small-business development by connecting entrepreneurs to technical assistance, permitting support, and economic-development tools
Advise the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs and Mayor on immigration-related policy issues, demographic trends, and inclusion opportunities
Coordinate referrals and support services for housing stability, health access, social services, and emergency response for immigrant residents
Manage grant strategies, compliance, budget oversight, and partnerships needed to expand immigrant-support programs
Develop community-engagement plans, listening sessions, and outreach strategies to elevate immigrant voices in policymaking
Ensure accurate data collection and impact reporting to measure progress, identify gaps, and recommend improvements
Represent the Mayor’s Office at community meetings, regional councils, public forums, and stakeholder convenings
Supervise program staff, oversee performance systems, and maintain strong accountability for service delivery
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public policy, community development, social work, public administration, or related field; advanced degree preferred
At least five years of senior-level experience working with immigrant, refugee, or special-population communities
Demonstrated success managing inclusion programs, legal-aid coordination, or social-service delivery systems
Strong cultural-competency skills and familiarity with Detroit’s immigrant communities, languages, and service landscape
Understanding of economic-inclusion strategies, workforce pathways, small-business supports, and neighborhood-based services
Experience working across government agencies, nonprofits, legal-aid organizations, and community coalitions
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public-engagement skills
Experience in grant management, reporting, compliance, and program administration
Ability to lead staff, manage operations, and respond to urgent needs with sensitivity and discretion
Commitment to equity, transparency, community-voice governance, and inclusive development
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.
Director - Housing and Revitalization Department
Serves as Detroit’s senior housing executive, responsible for leading the administration’s strategy to expand affordable housing, increase homeownership, accelerate infill development, and strengthen neighborhood stability
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
Detroit’s Housing & Revitalization Department (HRD) leads the City’s work to expand affordable housing, strengthen neighborhood stability, and ensure that longtime Detroiters can remain and thrive in their communities. The department coordinates major housing programs, federal resources, home repair investments, and community development strategies that affect more than 633,000 residents across nearly 140 square miles. Under the Sheffield Administration, HRD will champion a housing agenda rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity—expanding homeownership, accelerating the production of new homes, protecting renters, and investing in neighborhoods that have historically seen underinvestment. HRD works in partnership with DLBA, PDD, DEGC, DHC, community organizations, and residents to ensure that housing policies strengthen Detroit’s future while honoring the people who built the city.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Housing & Revitalization serves as Detroit’s senior housing executive, responsible for leading the administration’s strategy to expand affordable housing, increase homeownership, accelerate infill development, and strengthen neighborhood stability. The Director oversees major federal housing programs (CDBG, HOME, ESG), guides homelessness-response systems, advances affordable and workforce-housing initiatives, and coordinates closely with DLBA, PDD, DEGC, HRD, and the Detroit Housing Commission to ensure that Detroiters benefit directly from reinvestment. The role requires a leader with a strong equity lens, a collaborative approach, and a commitment to community-driven development.
This role will drive the administration’s housing and neighborhood priorities, including:
Establish and operationalize the Office of Homeownership & Housing Rights to expand down-payment assistance, home retention, and pathways to ownership.
Lead the initiative to build 1,000 new single-family homes, coordinating permitting, land disposition, incentives, and cross-agency delivery.
Implement structural property-tax reform to reduce burdens on homeowners and prevent displacement.
Increase the Housing Trust Fund to 100% of commercial land-sale revenue and guide strategic investment.
Execute the Affordable Housing Action Plan to close Detroit’s 40,000+ unit affordable-housing gap through new development, preservation, and rehabilitation.
Strengthen and expand home-repair programs to stabilize long-time homeowners and Detroit’s aging housing stock.
Partner with the Detroit Housing Commission on reforms that improve safety, quality, transparency, and voucher success.
Integrate housing strategies into Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, aligning housing with economic mobility, youth, and senior services.
Align HRD’s work with broader goals for poverty reduction, equitable development, renter protections, and community-led revitalization.
Mayor-Elect Sheffield has emphasized that Detroit must build “complete, thriving communities” where longtime residents share fully in the benefits of growth. The Director will advance this vision by accelerating infill housing production, expanding homeownership opportunities—especially for first-generation buyers—growing the affordable-housing pipeline, and strengthening dignity-centered homelessness services. The role requires deep partnership with neighborhood organizations, tenant advocates, and community leaders to ensure that housing policies and investments are shaped by and accountable to Detroiters. It is a rare opportunity to lead one of the nation’s most ambitious, equity-driven housing agendas and help secure stability, dignity, and opportunity for all residents.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead Detroit’s housing, affordability, and neighborhood‑revitalization strategy with a strong emphasis on equity and community voice.
Coordinate the development and construction of 1,000 new homes through streamlined infill development and public‑private partnerships.
Oversee creation and launch of the Office of Homeownership & Housing Rights, including program design, staffing, and service delivery.
Expand homeownership opportunities through down‑payment assistance, mortgage access initiatives, and first‑generation buyer support.
Guide property‑tax reform implementation and collaborate with state and local partners to reduce homeowner burdens.
Manage CDBG, HOME, ESG, Housing Trust Fund, and other major housing and federal resources to maximize community impact.
Lead Detroit’s homelessness‑response system, including rapid rehousing, prevention, outreach, and supportive‑housing expansion.
Advance affordable housing development, including new construction, preservation, rehabilitation, and long‑term affordability tools.
Coordinate reforms with the Detroit Housing Commission to improve housing quality, transparency, tenant protections, and voucher utilization.
Oversee citywide home‑repair programs, partnerships, and investments to stabilize Detroit’s aging housing stock.
Support community‑led neighborhood revitalization, including corridor‑based planning, blight removal, and community‑benefits alignment.
Collaborate with DLBA, PDD, DEGC, DHC, and neighborhood groups to align land‑use decisions with equitable housing goals.
Secure federal, state, philanthropic, and private funding to expand Detroit’s housing and revitalization initiatives.
Represent the Mayor in housing and development negotiations and engage residents, community groups, and regional partners.
Qualifications:
Commitment to housing as a human right, equitable development, anti-displacement strategies, and strengthening Detroit’s neighborhoods.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in public administration, urban planning, housing policy, real estate development, public policy, or a related field preferred.
Extensive leadership experience in affordable housing, community development, neighborhood revitalization, or housing-policy implementation within a city, county, state agency, or major nonprofit/housing institution.
Demonstrated success managing federal housing programs (CDBG, HOME, ESG) and ensuring strong HUD and NEPA compliance.
Experience interpreting property tax policy specifically with respect to tax abatements as a tool for housing development.
Experience developing or overseeing affordable, workforce, mixed-income, and for-sale housing projects, including rehabilitation, preservation, and new construction.
Strong understanding of development finance, including LIHTC, layered/braided funding, underwriting, project feasibility, and public–private partnerships.
Track record of working with community organizations, tenants, neighborhood groups, and resident-led initiatives to co-create solutions and advance equitable development.
Experience managing programs related to homelessness response, supportive housing, or housing-stability services.
Ability to collaborate effectively with developers, service providers, philanthropic partners, advocacy groups, and multiple government agencies.
Strong policy, regulatory, and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret housing regulations, evaluate programs, and design data-informed strategies.
Excellent communication and public engagement skills, including the ability to explain complex housing issues to residents, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
Experience managing teams, budgets, and complex departmental operations in a fast-paced, urban environment.
Working knowledge of Detroit, its communities, and local government, or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge.
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.
Director - Detroit Health Department
Serves as Detroit’s senior public‑health executive, responsible for shaping the City’s health agenda, directing major public‑health programs, overseeing population‑level health strategies, and leading cross‑agency efforts to address the social, economic, environmental, and behavioral drivers of health.
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 Detroit Health Department protects and promotes the health, safety, and well‑being of all Detroiters through prevention, public-health programming, community partnerships, and neighborhood‑based services. As Detroit enters a new era of integrated health and human services under the Sheffield Administration, the Health Department plays a central role in advancing health equity, strengthening maternal and infant health, addressing chronic disease, expanding behavioral‑health supports, and ensuring residents have access to the resources they need to thrive. Public health in Detroit extends far beyond clinical care—it includes safe housing, stable income, clean air and water, mental‑health supports, environmental resilience, homelessness response, and family‑support systems. The department works closely with the new Department of Human, Homeless & Family Services, Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, Detroit Public Schools Community District, DWIHN, hospitals, community organizations, and residents to build a healthier, more resilient Detroit.
The next Director of the Detroit Health Department will have a unique opportunity to accelerate this momentum — expanding community-based prevention programs, strengthening maternal and infant health supports, addressing environmental-justice concerns, and advancing behavioral-health resources for youth and families. Working closely with state and federal agencies, healthcare systems, academic institutions, and community partners — and guided by Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s commitment to building a city “where every family feels supported” — the Chief will help close long-standing health gaps and build healthier, more resilient neighborhoods across Detroit.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of the Detroit Health Department serves as Detroit’s senior public‑health executive, responsible for shaping the City’s health agenda, directing major public‑health programs, overseeing population‑level health strategies, and leading cross‑agency efforts to address the social, economic, environmental, and behavioral drivers of health. The Director leads Detroit’s public‑health response across maternal and infant health, chronic disease, environmental health, food security, behavioral health, preventative care, and emergency preparedness. The role requires an equity‑centered, community‑rooted leader with deep experience integrating mental and behavioral health with housing, homelessness, education, senior services, and human‑services systems to improve outcomes for residents across all neighborhoods. This role is responsible for neighborhood-based public health programming such as localized testing, and addressing Detroit’s disparate mortality rates.
This role will drive the administration’s housing and neighborhood priorities, including:
Implement public‑health components of the 7‑Point Homelessness Action Plan, including behavioral‑health supports, crisis response, medical outreach, and dignified shelter access.
Embed health access into Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, ensuring walk‑in immunizations, case management, maternal‑health supports, and behavioral‑health resources.
Lead expansion of mental‑health and trauma‑informed services, including crisis‑response partnerships with DWIHN, EMS, Fire, and community providers.
Strengthen maternal and infant health outcomes through expanded prenatal and postpartum care, doula access, and newborn‑family supports.
Partner with Senior Services to improve aging‑in‑place supports, chronic‑disease management, and household‑stability interventions.
Strengthen environmental‑health response for flooding, heat events, poor air quality, industrial emissions, and climate‑related health risks.
Support poverty‑reduction efforts with universal screening for food security, utilities, transportation, behavioral‑health needs, and chronic disease.
Coordinate with DPSCD and youth‑serving agencies to address health drivers of chronic absenteeism, including asthma, mental health, and housing instability.
Ensure culturally competent, language‑accessible care for immigrant communities and residents with limited English proficiency.
Integrate public health into returning‑citizen supports, including screenings, behavioral health, and trauma‑recovery services.
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 Detroit’s population‑level public‑health strategy with a focus on prevention, health equity, and community‑centered service delivery.
Oversee public‑health programs including communicable‑disease prevention, maternal and infant health, chronic disease, environmental health, behavioral health, and clinical services.
Direct public‑health components of Detroit’s homelessness‑response system, including outreach, health supports, crisis stabilization, and integrated case management.
Integrate public health with the new Department of Human, Homeless & Family Services and Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs.
Expand community‑based mental‑health, trauma‑informed, and crisis‑response services through partnerships with DWIHN, Fire, EMS, and hospitals.
Strengthen maternal and infant health supports, including prenatal and postpartum care, doula networks, lactation services, and newborn‑health programs.
Coordinate environmental‑health monitoring and response to flooding, air‑quality issues, industrial impacts, and other environmental hazards.
Advance youth and school‑based health programs in collaboration with DPSCD, including efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism and address behavioral‑health needs.
Oversee clinical operations and community‑based care delivery, including immunizations, STI testing, harm‑reduction services, and primary‑care partnerships.
Promote culturally responsive, language‑accessible health services for immigrant communities and residents with limited English proficiency.
Collaborate with Senior Services to support aging‑in‑place programs, chronic‑disease management, and household‑stability interventions.
Lead emergency‑preparedness planning and response for public‑health crises, disease outbreaks, and environmental emergencies.
Strengthen data systems, analytics, and reporting to monitor population‑level health trends and guide policy decisions.
Represent the City in public‑health collaborations, regional partnerships, and intergovernmental forums.
Qualifications:
Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH), or a closely related graduate degree, Doctor of Medicine (MD) preferred but not required.
Extensive executive-level experience in public-health leadership within a city, county, state agency, or major health system.
Demonstrated commitment to health equity and social justice, including experience addressing racial, economic, and neighborhood-based health disparities.
Proven ability to apply an equity lens to program design, budgeting, resource allocation, and policy development.
Experience partnering with community-based organizations, neighborhood leaders, advocacy groups, and faith communities to co-create health strategies and strengthen public trust.
Strong grounding in epidemiology and data-driven decision-making, including the ability to use data to set equity targets, measure outcomes, and guide strategy.
Ability to collaborate effectively with hospitals, clinical partners, academic institutions, state and federal agencies, and cross-sector partners (housing, education, workforce, transportation, public safety).
Experience in emergency preparedness, environmental health, maternal and infant health, population health, or communicable disease prevention.
Skilled in navigating politically sensitive issues with sound judgment, emotional intelligence, and cultural humility.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex health issues to residents, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
Proven success leading teams, managing change, and strengthening organizational culture in fast-paced public-health or governmental environments.
Deep commitment to Detroit’s neighborhoods, resident-centered service, and improving health outcomes across all communities.
Rate of Pay: $166,494 – $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.
Director - Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity
Serves as Detroit’s chief civil-rights and equity officer, responsible for advancing an integrated civil-rights agenda that connects enforcement, economic opportunity, housing access, and neighborhood development into a unified strategy for equity across the city.
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
Detroit’s Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity (CRIO) safeguards the civil and human rights of all Detroiters and ensures that every resident—regardless of race, income, age, ability, language, gender identity, immigration status, or neighborhood—can access City services, economic opportunity, and full participation in public life. The department leads the City’s civil‑rights enforcement, investigates discrimination complaints, oversees business‑inclusion efforts, advances disability and language access, and strengthens equity across workforce systems, housing access, and public services. 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 initiatives. The department works closely with community partners, legal advocates, civil‑rights organizations, and City agencies to dismantle systemic barriers and advance equity for all Detroiters.
CRIO leads the City’s civil-rights enforcement work; oversees business-inclusion and certification programs; advances workforce equity, disability rights, and language-access initiatives; and partners with community organizations, immigrant- and disability-rights advocates, labor groups, and regional institutions. The department also strengthens fair-housing protections, collaborates closely with housing and neighborhood-development agencies, and works to eliminate structural barriers to opportunity. Building on Detroit’s civil-rights legacy and its emerging equity frameworks, CRIO continues to launch and scale initiatives that weave civil rights into every aspect of neighborhood and economic development, helping make the City a place where all residents can participate in—and benefit from—Detroit’s revival.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director serves as Detroit’s chief civil-rights and equity officer, responsible for advancing an integrated civil-rights agenda that connects enforcement, economic opportunity, housing access, and neighborhood development into a unified strategy for equity across the city. The Director is expected to bring a proven track record of launching and leading integrated, cross-sector civil-rights initiatives that link fair housing, community investment, and equitable development to broader civil-rights protections. This role blends Detroit’s equity-driven mission with the investigatory and compliance functions found in major civil-rights departments nationwide.
The Director oversees discrimination investigations, mediation, compliance reviews, and pattern-analysis work; leads programs that promote business inclusion and community opportunity; and ensures adherence to local, state, and federal civil-rights laws. The position advises the Mayor, City Council, and City departments on equity impacts, emerging concerns, and opportunities to strengthen rights, protections, and economic mobility across Detroit. The Director also plays a central role in ensuring that housing access, neighborhood revitalization, and economic development are treated and advanced as core civil-rights priorities for all Detroiters.
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 Detroit’s civil‑rights enforcement system, including investigations, mediation, compliance reviews, and systemic pattern analyses.
Identify and eliminate discriminatory barriers across housing, employment, contracting, public safety, neighborhood services, and City programs.
Oversee fair‑housing enforcement, ADA compliance, and language‑access programs, ensuring all Detroiters can fully access City services.
Conduct civil‑rights reviews of major policy reforms related to housing, homelessness, land use, workforce, public safety, and immigrant inclusion.
Ensure civil‑rights protections are embedded in Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, including access for residents with disabilities and limited English proficiency.
Partner with Detroit Housing Commission, DLBA, HRD, and Planning to strengthen fair‑housing outcomes and prevent displacement.
Advance equity in procurement, business certification, and contracting, prioritizing Detroit‑based and MWBE‑owned businesses.
Oversee development of a citywide civil‑rights data and analytics function to detect inequities and inform policy solutions.
Work closely with immigrant‑rights advocates, disability‑rights leaders, legal aid partners, and community‑based organizations to strengthen protections.
Represent the City in civil‑rights litigation strategy, policy development, regional collaborations, and federal/state compliance matters.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local civil‑rights laws, affirmative‑action standards, and nondiscrimination regulations.
Provide civil‑rights guidance to the Mayor, City Council, and executive leadership on emerging concerns and opportunities to advance equity.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s in public administration, law, public policy, civil rights, or a related field preferred.
Extensive leadership experience in civil-rights enforcement, equity work, investigations, compliance, or related public-sector roles.
Track record of launching and leading integrated civil-rights initiatives that connect housing, neighborhood development, economic inclusion, and anti-discrimination enforcement.
Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws, fair-housing regulations, ADA requirements, and language-access standards.
Familiarity with major construction projects, contracting processes, business-inclusion programs, and compliance requirements.
Ability to oversee investigations, mediation, compliance reviews, and pattern-and-practice analyses.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal, equity, and policy issues to diverse audiences.
Ability to work effectively with diverse communities, including those most impacted by discrimination or inequitable development.
Proven ability to collaborate with elected officials, city executives, attorneys, business leaders, community advocates, and enterprise partners.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project-management skills, with the ability to deliver results under pressure and tight timelines.
High emotional intelligence, cultural humility, and the ability to navigate complex political and community dynamics.
Ability to manage teams, lead organizational change, and promote a culture of equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Working knowledge of Detroit, its communities, and local government, or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 – $179,888 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.
Director - Buildings, Safety, Environment and Engineering (BSEED)
Serves as Detroit’s chief regulatory and code-enforcement executive, responsible for modernizing inspections, improving permitting systems, strengthening property-maintenance compliance, advancing environmental-justice priorities, and ensuring that residents and businesses experience clear, consistent, and fair processes.
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 Buildings, Safety, Engineering & Environmental Department (BSEED) is the City of Detroit’s primary regulatory and code-enforcement agency, responsible for ensuring that buildings, businesses, and developments across Detroit are safe, compliant, and aligned with the city’s long-term vision for healthy, thriving neighborhoods. The department issues permits, conducts inspections, enforces zoning and property-maintenance codes, leads environmental compliance, and supports residents, homeowners, tenants, and businesses through clear and accountable processes. As Detroit continues to grow and reinvest in its neighborhoods, BSEED plays a crucial role in ensuring that development is equitable, construction is safe, and property standards protect quality of life. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s administration, the department is central to delivering dignity-centered services, improving neighborhood conditions, strengthening housing stability, and rebuilding trust between residents and government.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of BSEED serves as Detroit’s chief regulatory and code-enforcement executive, responsible for modernizing inspections, improving permitting systems, strengthening property-maintenance compliance, advancing environmental-justice priorities, and ensuring that residents and businesses experience clear, consistent, and fair processes. Reporting directly to the Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce & Economic Development, the Director oversees all divisions of BSEED, including inspections, permits, property maintenance, business licensing, zoning administration, environmental compliance, and construction-plan review.
This leader must bring a resident-centered approach to code enforcement—balancing safety, accountability, and compassion—while ensuring that development moves efficiently and responsibly. The Director will lead major reforms aligned with the Sheffield administration’s priorities, including making permitting faster and more predictable, improving rental inspections, supporting infill housing and single-family development, expanding environmental-health protections, and ensuring BSEED works effectively with the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Planning & Development, Housing & Revitalization, and neighborhood-based teams. The role requires strong operational leadership, deep knowledge of regulatory systems, and a commitment to equity, transparency, and neighborhood well-being.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Accelerate safe, high-quality infill housing and single-family development through improved permitting, inspections, and plan-review processes
Strengthen rental-inspection and property-maintenance enforcement to improve housing quality for tenants and support stable neighborhoods
Advance environmental-justice initiatives by improving environmental monitoring, responding to community concerns, and ensuring industrial compliance
Ensure clear, predictable, and timely permitting processes for homeowners, small builders, and neighborhood-scale developers
Improve business licensing and zoning review to support small business growth, neighborhood storefront activation, and equitable economic opportunity
Support community-driven development by coordinating with neighborhood planning teams, the Detroit Land Bank Authority, and Housing & Revitalization
Improve resident-facing customer service with accessible communication, simplified processes, and clear timelines
Expand data transparency to give Detroiters insight into permitting activity, code-enforcement progress, and environmental-safety outcomes
Coordinate closely with the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs to respond to resident complaints, improve property upkeep, and address chronic nuisance properties
Ensure staff training, workforce stability, and operational reforms that support fair enforcement and consistent service delivery
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 for all BSEED divisions including inspections, permits, zoning, licensing, environmental compliance, and property maintenance
Oversee the administration of building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and structural inspections to ensure safety and code compliance
Lead modernization of Detroit’s permitting, licensing, and plan-review systems to reduce delays and improve user experience
Strengthen rental-inspection programs and enhance enforcement strategies that improve housing conditions for tenants while supporting responsible landlords
Direct environmental-compliance work, including monitoring of industrial activity, air quality concerns, environmental-health risks, and enforcement actions
Ensure zoning administration aligns with neighborhood plans, economic-development goals, and community-driven development strategies
Collaborate with departmental partners to accelerate infill housing, single-family construction, adaptive reuse, and small-scale development
Advance data-driven performance management to track service delivery, improve turnaround times, and enhance accountability
Oversee customer-service operations to ensure residents and small businesses receive clear, accessible, and responsive guidance
Strengthen relationships with community groups, neighborhood associations, business owners, developers, and Detroiters navigating the regulatory system
Support coordinated enforcement strategies with the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Public Works, Neighborhoods, Housing & Revitalization, and Law Department
Develop and manage department budgets, staffing plans, training programs, and operational priorities
Represent BSEED in public meetings, council sessions, neighborhood forums, and regional regulatory partnerships
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public administration, engineering, planning, law, construction management, or related field preferred
Ten or more years of senior-level experience in building inspections, code enforcement, regulatory management, construction, permitting, environmental oversight, or municipal operations
Strong understanding of Detroit’s built environment, housing challenges, rental landscape, small-development ecosystem, and neighborhood infrastructure
Demonstrated ability to lead complex regulatory or inspection systems with clear standards, consistent enforcement, and high-quality operational performance
Experience improving permitting, licensing, or inspection workflows through digital modernization and process improvement
Knowledge of Michigan construction codes, zoning laws, environmental regulations, property-maintenance standards, and relevant state and federal requirements
Strong community-engagement skills with the ability to build trust among residents, neighborhood groups, builders, landlords, and business owners
Proven success managing large teams, unionized workforces, and high-volume service operations in a fast-moving environment
Commitment to equity-centered enforcement practices, transparency, and resident dignity
Experience working in Detroit or a similar large urban environment strongly preferred
Rate of Pay: $109,693 – $179,888 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.
Director of Advance
Serves as the Mayor’s chief architect of event strategy, logistics, and on-the-ground execution, overseeing the full lifecycle of the Mayor’s public engagements
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 oversees the executive leadership, policy direction, and day-to-day operations of City government, ensuring that Detroiters experience responsive, people-centered service wherever they live and work. Within this structure, the Advance Office plays a critical role in bringing the Mayor’s priorities directly to the community by ensuring that all events, engagements, neighborhood visits, press announcements, and special initiatives are executed with precision, dignity, and intentionality. The Advance function ensures that every public-facing moment—large or small—reflects Detroit’s values, centers resident experience, and helps the Mayor stay connected to the people driving the city’s progress.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Advance serves as the Mayor’s chief architect of event strategy, logistics, and on-the-ground execution, overseeing the full lifecycle of the Mayor’s public engagements. This leader manages all advance planning for neighborhood events, policy rollouts, community celebrations, press opportunities, and major announcements, while coordinating closely with security, communications, scheduling, operations, and departmental partners. The Director ensures that every event is well-organized, mission-aligned, sensitive to community context, and strategically designed to amplify the Mayor’s agenda. This role requires exceptional project management, political acumen, and deep understanding of Detroit’s communities so the Mayor can show up prepared, safe, supported, and connected to residents. The Director of Advance manages a team of advance staff and event coordinators and serves as the central operational link between the Mayor’s priorities and the public-facing moments that bring those priorities to life.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensuring the Mayor’s engagement strategy reflects resident-centered governance and strengthens visibility across all neighborhoods
Supporting the Mayor’s commitment to show up directly in communities—at block clubs, senior buildings, schools, small businesses, faith institutions, and neighborhood corridors
Coordinating events that highlight the Administration’s work in housing, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, public safety, youth programs, and senior services
Ensuring that engagements lift up community voices and demonstrate transparency, accountability, and responsiveness
Building relationships with community groups, local partners, neighborhood organizations, and resident leaders to support effective event planning and outreach
Elevating Detroiters’ stories and lived experiences through thoughtful event design that reflects the city’s diversity and vibrancy
Integrating the Mayor’s strategic communication, safety, and logistics plans into all events to maintain professionalism, impact, and seamless execution
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 planning, design, and execution of all events, engagements, announcements, neighborhood visits, and public appearances for the Mayor
Manage the full Advance team and oversee staff assignments, workflows, timelines, and event operations
Coordinate with the Executive Scheduler, Communications team, Public Safety/Security Detail, and key departments to ensure the Mayor’s schedule, safety, and preparation needs are fully supported
Conduct site visits, develop run-of-show documents, prepare logistical plans, and coordinate local stakeholders in advance of events
Ensure briefing materials, talking points, and event background documents are delivered accurately and on time in collaboration with Communications and Policy teams
Establish on-site procedures for crowd flow, staging, seating, technical support, accessibility needs, and press logistics
Serve as the primary liaison to community organizations, neighborhood groups, businesses, faith institutions, and partner agencies involved in event hosting
Develop standardized systems, checklists, and protocols to ensure consistency and excellence in Advance operations
Direct staff in managing event outreach, community invitations, and audience engagement plans
Partner with the Mayor’s security detail to ensure safety protocols are followed and risk assessments are integrated into planning
Support emergency adjustments, rapid-response events, or last-minute agenda shifts with calm, strategic decision-making
Oversee event debriefs, continuous improvement processes, and high-quality documentation
Represent the Mayor’s Office in cross-departmental coordination related to logistics, planning, and neighborhood-level engagement strategies
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, communications, political science, event management, or related field
At least five years of experience in political advance work, high-level event management, executive operations, campaign advance, or government scheduling
Experience working for an elected official or senior executive preferred
Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders, tight timelines, and high visibility
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community organizations, civic landscape, and cultural networks
Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and interpersonal skills
Ability to work collaboratively with Communications, Scheduling, Security, and Policy teams
Experience managing staff in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Strong judgment, discretion, and ability to manage sensitive or confidential information
Willingness and ability to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours based on the Mayor’s schedule
Commitment to equity, community voice, dignity, and resident-centered public service
Rate of Pay: $105,000 - $125,000 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.
Deputy Director of Human, Homeless and Family Services Department
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.
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.
Deputy Chief of Staff
Serves as the Chief of Staff’s principal partner in managing daily operations of the Mayor’s Office
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
Drives the administration’s work to position Detroit as a leading center for technology, emerging industries, and next-generation business development
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.
Deputy Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer
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.
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.
Chief of Neighborhood Economic Development and Small Business
Serves as the Mayor’s senior executive strategist for neighborhood-based economic growth, corridor revitalization, small-business development and business modernization.
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 Neighborhood Economic Development & Small Business sits within the Mayor’s Office and leads Detroit’s strategy to strengthen neighborhood corridors, accelerate community-rooted economic growth, and make Detroit the best place in the country to start and grow a small business. The office coordinates major levers of economic mobility through a localized Neighborhood Economic Development division, a Business Innovation and Emerging Industries Division, and a Small Business Affairs and Economic Opportunity Division. This work directly centers resident voice within neighborhood development, ensures that business innovation expands into new industries, and supports Detroit-based entrepreneurs to start, grow and expand their businesses easily and reliably. The Chief of Neighborhood Development and Small Business ensures that reinvestment and economic expansion reaches every neighborhood—not only the city’s major commercial areas. Through direct engagement with small businesses, community organizations, corridor stakeholders, investors, and philanthropic partners, the office advances Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s vision of equitable economic opportunity, community-driven revitalization, and inclusive prosperity.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Chief of Neighborhood Economic Development & Small Business serves as the Mayor’s senior executive strategist for neighborhood-based economic growth, corridor revitalization, small-business development and business modernization. Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Chief leads Detroit’s citywide agenda to strengthen neighborhood commercial corridors, improve the business climate, attract and retain small and medium-sized enterprises, and, importantly, streamline administrative processes to reduce barriers to doing business in Detroit. The role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in economic development, land use, business attraction and retention, small-business ecosystems, corridor development strategy, and developing Detroit’s historic neighborhoods according to the needs and wants of Detroit residents. This work occurs cross-administratively, in concordance with the Master Plan, and in partnership with the Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce and Economic Development and others. The Chief also works in close partnership with DEGC, DDA, CRIO, labor, philanthropic partners, business associations, lenders, small-business technical assistance providers, and cross-agency city staff to ensure Detroit’s small businesses—and the neighborhoods they anchor—thrive. This role is central to implementing the Mayor’s commitment to community wealth-building, equitable neighborhood development, and making Detroit the most supportive and accessible environment in the nation for entrepreneurs.
This role will drive key priorities outlined in Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s policy agenda, including:
Advancing a neighborhood-first development strategy that strengthens commercial corridors in every district
Build Detroit’s small-business ecosystem with a focus on Detroit-based entrepreneurs, legacy businesses, and first-time founders
Leading citywide business innovation by developing new tools, partnerships, and service models that make Detroit a national leader in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Modernize administrative practices to allow businesses to quickly and easily navigate permitting, inspections, and licensing processes, making Detroit the easiest city in America to start and grow a business
Launch and expand the Office of Small Business Affairs to deliver hands-on, neighborhood-based assistance to entrepreneurs
Drive small-business retention and expansion through coordinated support, capital access, technical assistance, and strategic incentives
Partner with DEGC, DDA, CRIO, and philanthropic institutions to align investments with neighborhood needs and local business growth
Support Detroit’s “Destination Detroit” population-growth strategy by strengthening neighborhood amenities, retail opportunities, and mixed-use corridors
Ensure that underserved businesses and business owners have equitable access to resources, capital, and opportunities
Lead a citywide strategy to develop underutilized commercial properties, vacant storefronts, and aging corridor infrastructure
Develop a data-driven system to track business openings, closures, retention rates, corridor health, and equitable investment
Integrate workforce supports—childcare, transportation, apprenticeships—into neighborhood business strategies to connect residents with good jobs
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:
Oversee Detroit’s neighborhood economic development strategy, ensuring commercial corridors across all seven districts receive focused planning, investment, and coordinated support
Direct small-business development efforts, including attraction, retention, expansion, permitting navigation, and business-support programs
Lead implementation and growth of the Office of Small Business Affairs and ensure services are accessible in neighborhoods through direct outreach and citywide hubs
Coordinate with DEGC, DDA, CRIO, Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department (BSEED), and other agencies to streamline business processes and accelerate approvals
Guide major corridor revitalization projects, land transactions, incentive strategies, and catalytic development activities in neighborhood districts
Collaborate with lending institutions, CDFIs, philanthropic funders, and technical assistance providers to increase capital access for Detroit-based entrepreneurs
Shape transparent and equitable development incentives that prioritize neighborhood benefit, local hiring, small-business inclusion, and long-term affordability
Serve as a senior advisor to employers, investors, developers, and business associations seeking to grow within Detroit’s neighborhoods
Coordinate citywide programs to reduce barriers for small businesses, including childcare supports, transportation solutions, digital access, and workforce-housing connections
Represent the Mayor in negotiations, business-retention visits, corridor strategy meetings, and regional economic-development partnerships
Develop performance metrics and a public dashboard to track corridor vitality, business growth, and equitable investment
Ensure community voice informs business-development strategy by partnering with Neighborhood District Managers, block clubs, corridor groups, and resident leaders.
Qualifications:
Advanced degree in public policy, economics, business administration, urban planning, real estate development, or related field preferred
Ten or more years of experience in economic development, small-business support, commercial corridor revitalization, urban real estate, or related fields
Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-agency initiatives in fast-paced, politically sensitive environments
Experience working with DEGC, DDA, CRIO, or similar economic-development entities strongly preferred
Proven success in small-business attraction, retention, expansion, or permitting reform
Strong experience in commercial real estate, corridor planning, land use, or redevelopment of mixed-use districts
Skilled in economic-development finance, including incentives, grants, TIF, bonds, CDBG-funded business programs, and public-private partnerships
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s business landscape, corridors, micro-enterprise challenges, and neighborhood economic conditions strongly preferred
Exceptional relationship-building skills with residents, business owners, lenders, developers, philanthropic partners, and community groups
Commitment to equity, transparency, community voice, and inclusive economic development aligned with the values of the Sheffield Administration.
Rate of Pay: $179,000 - $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.
Chief of Neighborhood Affairs - Mayor’s Office
Senior executive responsible for ensuring every Detroiter is engaged, heard, and supported through neighborhood-based service, advocacy, and partnership.
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 Neighborhood Affairs is the administration’s front-door to Detroit’s communities, responsible for ensuring that every resident—across every neighborhood, block club, senior building, and community group—feels directly connected to City Hall. The office serves as Detroit’s central hub for resident engagement, neighborhood coordination, senior services, youth outreach, violence-prevention programming, and community-based partnerships. Through district managers, deputy district managers, senior advocates, youth coordinators, CVI liaisons, and faith-based connectors, the office brings city services out of downtown and directly into neighborhoods, meeting residents where they are. The work is grounded in Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s commitment to resident voice, block-by-block empowerment, and community-driven government that is visible, accessible, and accountable.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs is the administration’s senior executive responsible for ensuring every Detroiter is engaged, heard, and supported through neighborhood-based service, advocacy, and partnership. This role leads the City’s district infrastructure—including District Managers, Deputy District Managers, Opportunity & Empowerment Hub coordinators, Senior Citizen Services, Youth Affairs, Community Violence Intervention, Faith-Based Engagement, and a range of advisory boards and cultural/identity coalitions. The Chief organizes these functions into a unified, resident-centered system that elevates neighborhood priorities into City policy, strengthens trust between residents and government, and coordinates cross-departmental delivery of services and support. The Chief ensures Detroiters’ lived experiences shape decisions around housing, safety, youth, seniors, small business, development, mobility, and citywide resource allocation.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Establish a citywide neighborhood engagement model that ensures every resident has a direct relationship with the administration
Strengthen Detroit’s network of block clubs, promote formation of new neighborhood associations, and expand grassroots leadership development
Launch Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs that co-locate services, supports, and community resources in accessible locations
Ensure neighborhood needs and feedback inform citywide policy, budget, and development decisions
Develop a coordinated service-delivery model across all senior buildings and senior-facing resources
Strengthen community violence intervention strategies through neighborhood-based outreach and trusted messengers
Integrate youth engagement, youth leadership development, and safe-spaces programming into district operations
Formalize the role of identity- and culture-based coalitions (LGBTQ, ethnic groups, returning citizens, immigrant communities) within neighborhood decision-making
Expand faith-based partnerships to support neighborhood stability, social services, and community-led initiatives
Ensure timely information flow between neighborhoods and the Mayor’s Office, with clear follow-through on commitments made to residents
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:
Oversee the full district infrastructure, including District Managers, Deputy District Managers, Opportunity & Empowerment Hub teams, and neighborhood-facing service units
Lead the City’s strategy to build, support, and scale block clubs, neighborhood associations, and community-led networks
Supervise Senior Citizen Services, ensuring strong advocacy and support systems across all senior buildings and senior-serving organizations
Oversee the Office of Youth Affairs, including youth coordinators, youth engagement initiatives, and neighborhood-based youth programming
Provide executive oversight of Community Violence Intervention operations within neighborhoods, ensuring seamless coordination with CVI Office leadership
Manage faith-based engagement through the Faith-Based Director and liaisons, ensuring congregations and faith anchors are integrated into neighborhood planning and service coordination
Coordinate identity- and culture-based advisory boards, ensuring their insights inform citywide strategy
Ensure neighborhood needs and priorities are collected, analyzed, and elevated directly to the Mayor to shape policy, programs, and special initiatives
Lead cross-departmental coordination to bring city services directly into neighborhoods and senior/special population buildings
Represent the Mayor at neighborhood meetings, community events, crisis response gatherings, and cross-agency coordination sessions
Provide regular briefings to the Mayor on neighborhood trends, service gaps, resident feedback, and emerging community priorities
Develop systems for case management, service referrals, follow-up tracking, and citywide customer service expectations
Ensure rapid-response protocols are in place for neighborhood-level issues relating to safety, housing, infrastructure, and service delivery
Champion resident-centered governance across all City departments and ensure neighborhood perspectives inform economic development, housing, and public safety decisions
Qualifications:
Advanced degree in public administration, urban planning, social work, community development, public policy, or a related field preferred
Ten or more years of senior leadership experience in community engagement, neighborhood services, or cross-sector public service
Deep familiarity with Detroit neighborhoods, community organizations, senior buildings, block clubs, and resident leadership networks strongly preferred
Demonstrated experience building and leading teams in complex community-facing environments
Proven record of designing or scaling neighborhood-rooted programs or resident-support systems
Experience managing community engagement during major planning, housing, economic development, or public safety initiatives
Strong relationship-building skills with residents, block clubs, youth, seniors, faith leaders, and advocacy organizations
Ability to navigate sensitive community concerns with empathy, diplomacy, and credibility
Experience coordinating multi-agency teams and working in fast-paced executive environments
Commitment to equity, community voice, transparency, and the values of the Sheffield Administration
Rate of Pay: $179,000- 304,000 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.
Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce and Economic Development
Serves as a senior executive responsible for integrating Detroit’s major housing, planning, economic-development, and workforce systems into one coordinated, community-centered agenda.
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 Housing, Planning, Workforce & Economic Development is housed within the Mayor’s Office and serves as the administration’s central coordinating body for Detroit’s housing, neighborhood planning, economic development, and workforce strategy. This office aligns the work of key agencies and partners—including the Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA), Housing & Revitalization Department (HRD), Planning & Development Department (PDD), Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), Downtown Development Authority (DDA), Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity (CRIO), Detroit at Work, Detroit Means Business, and major philanthropic and industry partners—to ensure Detroit residents directly benefit from reinvestment, job creation, and long-term neighborhood stability. The office’s mission is to expand affordable housing and homeownership programs, accelerate infill and single-family housing development, reform land stewardship practices, support community-led development, strengthen local business ecosystems, and align Detroit’s talent pipelines with the high-quality jobs of today and tomorrow. All work is grounded in the values of equity, resident voice, and the belief that Detroit’s growth must be driven by and for Detroiters.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce & Economic Development serves as a senior executive responsible for integrating Detroit’s major housing, planning, economic-development, and workforce systems into one coordinated, community-centered agenda. The Chief ensures direct alignment between neighborhood-led housing strategies, infill and single-family development, planning and zoning priorities, Detroit Land Bank and Housing Commission reforms, economic-development initiatives, and workforce pipelines that prepare Detroiters for great-paying jobs. This role oversees major citywide housing planning and development functions, including equitable incentive and tax-abatement policy; recruitment and retention of large and emerging industries; economic mobility strategies; CRIO’s inclusion and community benefit agreement compliance efforts; and workforce partnerships spanning employers, unions, and training institutions. The Chief is responsible for ensuring that resident feedback meaningfully informs policy and development decisions and that Detroiters experience visible improvements in housing quality, economic opportunity, and neighborhood stability. This position requires a visionary leader with deep policy expertise, exceptional community relationships, and the operational skill to drive large-scale, cross-agency systems toward measurable results.
This role will drive the administration’s neighborhood priorities, including:
Lead Detroit’s unified Housing, Planning, Workforce, and Economic Development strategy under one cohesive vision
Ensure alignment between community-driven housing development, infill and single-family construction, and long-term neighborhood planning
Advance business-attraction strategies to recruit major employers and emerging industries into Detroit’s economic base
Coordinate high-quality workforce pipelines that prepare Detroiters for careers in mobility, clean energy, healthcare, tech, logistics, skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing
Drive comprehensive reform of the Detroit Land Bank Authority to improve transparency, customer experience, and community benefit
Drive comprehensive reform of the Detroit Housing Commission to improve transparency, customer experience, and community benefit
Expand first-generation homeownership pathways
Facilitate small-scale development pipelines and neighborhood-based rehabilitation efforts
Guide equitable tax-abatement, incentive, and investment strategies that stabilize neighborhoods and produce clear public benefit
Oversee core economic-development functions including DEGC, DDA, CRIO, Detroit Means Business, and entrepreneurship strategy
Build and implement Detroit’s citywide Master Plan with sustained resident engagement
Source and manage federal funds for anti-displacement, home-repair, and affordability-preservation strategies benefitting Detroit residents
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:
Oversee Detroit’s integrated housing, planning, workforce, and economic-development portfolio from within the Mayor’s Office
Lead cross-agency teams including DLBA, PDD, HRD, DEGC, DDA, CRIO, Detroit at Work, and philanthropic and private-sector partners
Direct the development and execution of the citywide Neighborhood Development Plan with strong community participation
Strengthen infill and single-family housing development pipelines, including land disposition, permitting, financing strategies, and small-scale developer support
Drive major reforms to the Detroit Housing Commission and Detroit Land Bank Authority to improve customer service, community alignment, and equitable outcomes
Guide policy and operational strategies for tax abatements, incentives, zoning, and land-use tools
Develop comprehensive economic-development strategies that support legacy businesses, attract major employers, and grow Detroit’s industry clusters
Oversee Detroit Means Business, small-business supports, commercial corridor development, and entrepreneurship strategies
Align Detroit at Work and employer partnerships to build workforce pipelines that match industry needs and prepare residents for quality jobs
Promote equitable development practices and ensure CRIO’s supplier diversity and inclusion goals support Detroit-based and minority-owned businesses
Work closely with neighborhood leaders and residents to ensure housing and economic decisions reflect community priorities
Represent the Mayor in major negotiations, development discussions, and intergovernmental economic projects
Monitor neighborhood and economic indicators to guide policy decisions and ensure transparency
Coordinate large-scale funding strategies across local, state, federal, and philanthropic sources
Ensure strong collaboration between planning, housing, economic development, and workforce systems to deliver measurable improvements for Detroit residents.
Qualifications:
Advanced degree in public policy, urban planning, real estate, economics, business administration, law, or a related field preferred
Ten or more years of senior leadership experience in housing, planning, economic development, workforce strategy, or cross-agency public administration
Demonstrated experience managing core economic-development agencies or programs such as DEGC, DDA, CRIO, small-business ecosystems, or major development authorities
Proven experience leading infill and single-family housing development, rehabilitation programs, and community-driven development strategies
Experience managing land-bank operations, land disposition, real estate development strategies, or complex incentive systems
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, economic landscape, housing systems, land stewardship challenges, and business environment
Experience recruiting or supporting large-scale employers and emerging industries
Expertise in tax abatements, zoning, land-use policy, and economic-development finance tools
Exceptional ability to build relationships with residents, developers, employers, unions, community organizations, and philanthropic partners
Demonstrated commitment to equity, transparency, community voice, and neighborhood-centered development
Ability to work in fast-paced, politically sensitive environments and lead complex cross-departmental initiatives.
Rate of Pay: $179,000 - $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.
Director of Communications - Mayor’s Office
Serves as the Mayor’s chief communications strategist and leads all executive, digital, creative, and public-affairs functions for the administration.
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 Communications team serves as the central hub for how the City’s chief executive communicates with residents, partners, media, and the broader public. The office is responsible for ensuring Detroiters receive clear, timely, accessible information about city programs, major initiatives, community investments, and the Mayor’s priorities. Under the Sheffield Administration, the Communications Office plays a critical role in building public trust, strengthening transparency, celebrating community stories, and demonstrating how government delivers for Detroiters in real time. The office oversees executive communications, digital strategy, media relations, visual storytelling, and brand identity for the Mayor, ensuring that every message reflects Detroit’s values, neighborhoods, and commitment to equity and resident-centered governance.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Communications serves as the Mayor’s chief communications strategist and leads all executive, digital, creative, and public-affairs functions for the administration. The Director oversees the work of the Executive Communications Specialist (speechwriter), Digital & Creative Director, Videographer, and Public Relations Manager, ensuring that messaging is aligned, proactive, strategic, and rooted in the lived experiences of Detroiters. The role is responsible for shaping the Mayor’s voice, narrative, and public-facing identity across speeches, media interactions, digital platforms, community events, and major announcements. This position requires exceptional political judgment, strong editorial and brand discipline, deep understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, and the ability to manage rapid-response communications while advancing long-term storytelling. The Director ensures that the Mayor is represented with clarity, authenticity, and integrity, and that residents are kept informed, engaged, and connected to their local government.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Advance a communications strategy that reflects the Mayor’s resident-centered, equity-driven governing philosophy
Ensure communications amplify the administration’s policy agenda across housing, economic opportunity, neighborhood development, public safety, and family support
Strengthen transparency and public trust by delivering accurate, timely, accessible information to Detroiters
Elevate resident stories, community organizations, and neighborhood accomplishments in all citywide messaging
Ensure communications reflect Detroit’s diversity, cultural richness, and neighborhood identities
Support public safety messaging rooted in dignity, prevention, and community well-being
Promote housing and affordability initiatives that reflect the Mayor’s commitment to housing as a human right
Highlight investments that strengthen families, seniors, youth, and vulnerable residents
Ensure major policy rollouts include clear messaging, multimedia storytelling, and community-informed communication strategies
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 lead a comprehensive communications strategy for the Mayor and the administration
Oversee executive communications, digital content, creative assets, media relations, and public-affairs messaging
Manage and supervise the Executive Communications Specialist, Digital & Creative Director, Videographer, and Public Relations Manager
Shape and protect the Mayor’s voice, narrative, and public presence across speeches, digital platforms, and media
Review, approve, and refine all official messages, statements, remarks, and creative assets
Coordinate with senior advisors, cabinet members, and policy leads to communicate major initiatives with clarity and accuracy
Develop and implement strategic plans for crisis communications, rapid response, and emerging issues
Ensure communications are accessible, culturally competent, and tailored to Detroit’s neighborhoods and communities
Partner with the Digital & Creative Director to maintain a unified brand identity for the Mayor
Strengthen relationships with local, regional, and national media
Support content and briefing materials that prepare the Mayor for public appearances, interviews, and major speeches
Develop long-term storytelling initiatives that lift up Detroit’s progress and resident-centered successes
Establish performance metrics to track engagement, reach, and community understanding
Represent the Communications Office in cross-departmental meetings and ensure strong coordination across city agencies
Qualifications:
Significant leadership experience in executive communications, public affairs, political communications, or journalism
Demonstrated ability to manage communications for a high-profile executive, elected official, or public-sector leader
Exceptional writing, editing, narrative development, and messaging skills
Strong political judgment, discretion, and crisis-communications experience
Experience overseeing creative teams, digital platforms, and multimedia content development
Commitment to equity, community voice, transparency, and resident-centered storytelling
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, history, culture, and civic landscape
Ability to build strong relationships with community stakeholders, media outlets, and cross-sector partners
Experience developing communications around major policy issues including housing, economic development, public safety, and community well-being
Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends based on the Mayor’s schedule
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred
Detroit-based candidates or those with deep knowledge of Detroit’s communities are strongly encouraged to apply
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,888 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.
Controller - City of Detroit
Serves as Detroit’s chief accounting officer, responsible for safeguarding public assets, maintaining the integrity of financial systems, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations and audit requirements
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 Controller serves as the City of Detroit’s central financial steward, responsible for ensuring accurate accounting, transparent reporting, strong internal controls, and the responsible management of public funds. Operating within the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) and supporting the Mayor’s policy and operational priorities, the Controller oversees citywide financial operations including accounting, financial reporting, cash management, internal controls, payroll, and compliance with state and federal regulations. The office plays a critical role in maintaining Detroit’s financial stability, strengthening public trust, and ensuring that city resources are allocated equitably and strategically to support community well-being. The Controller ensures Detroit maintains the highest standards of fiscal transparency and accountability while enabling investments in neighborhoods, public services, and long-term economic recovery.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer and working closely with the Mayor and City leadership, the Controller serves as Detroit’s chief accounting officer, responsible for safeguarding public assets, maintaining the integrity of financial systems, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations and audit requirements. The Controller leads the development of Detroit’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), oversees all accounting divisions, ensures timely financial reporting to state and federal agencies, and manages robust internal-control systems that prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. The role requires a leader capable of navigating Detroit’s complex financial landscape, strengthening fiscal discipline, modernizing financial systems, and supporting the Mayor’s goals for equitable investment, transparent governance, and long-term financial sustainability.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure accurate, timely, and transparent financial reporting that strengthens public trust
Maintain strong internal controls and compliance systems to prevent waste, fraud, and financial mismanagement
Modernize Detroit’s accounting and financial-reporting infrastructure to improve efficiency and accessibility
Ensure financial practices support the Mayor’s priorities for equitable neighborhood investment and resident-centered budgeting
Strengthen Detroit’s long-term financial sustainability through sound accounting and cash-management practices
Support interdepartmental initiatives—housing, public health, public safety, economic development—by providing financial guidance and ensuring proper fiscal oversight
Ensure full compliance with state and federal financial requirements, audits, and grant-management standards
Advance fiscal transparency through clear public reporting and accessible financial communicationThis 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:
Oversee all accounting functions for the City of Detroit including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and grants accounting
Prepare Detroit’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and ensure its accuracy, completeness, and compliance with GASB, GAAP, and all audit requirements
Develop and maintain strong internal controls that safeguard public resources and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
Direct the preparation of timely and accurate financial statements, reports, and disclosures required by the Mayor, City Council, the State of Michigan, and federal agencies
Manage citywide financial audits, coordinate with external auditors, and lead corrective-action plans to resolve findings
Ensure proper financial oversight and compliance for federal, state, philanthropic, and reimbursable grants
Oversee cash management, bank reconciliation, and treasury coordination to ensure liquidity and financial stability
Support major citywide initiatives by providing fiscal analysis, cost modeling, and regulatory guidance
Develop and maintain financial policies, procedures, and systems to ensure consistent and compliant financial operations
Lead technology modernization efforts to improve financial reporting, data integrity, and user experience across departments
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate Controller’s Office staff to ensure high performance and professional development
Provide strategic advice to the Mayor, CFO, and executive leadership on the financial implications of major policy initiatives
Engage with residents, Council, oversight bodies, and partners to promote transparency and understanding of Detroit’s financial health
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field required; CPA strongly preferred
Ten or more years of progressively responsible experience in governmental accounting, financial management, or auditing
Demonstrated expertise in GAAP, GASB standards, internal controls, and public-sector financial reporting
Experience preparing or overseeing an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) or equivalent large-scale public reporting
Strong understanding of municipal finance, grant compliance, and state/federal funding requirements
Proven ability to modernize financial systems, strengthen internal controls, and lead organization-wide fiscal reforms
Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills in complex financial environments
Experience managing large teams and developing high-performing staff within financial operations
Ability to work effectively in fast-moving, politically sensitive, and cross-departmental environments
Deep commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical financial stewardship
Detroit experience or strong familiarity with Detroit’s fiscal history and neighborhood investment priorities preferred
Rate of Pay: $135,679-$193,000commensurate 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.