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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor serves as the central hub of Detroit’s executive leadership and is responsible for delivering responsive, resident-centered governance that advances the priorities of Mayor-Elect Sheffield. The office manages high-impact programs, constituent service, citywide communication, and cross-departmental coordination that ensures Detroiters experience government that is accessible, transparent, and accountable. As the first point of contact for many residents, partners, and stakeholders, the Mayor’s Office plays a critical role in shaping public trust, responding to community needs, and ensuring that the administration’s work reflects the voices and priorities of Detroiters across all neighborhoods.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Administrative Assistant provides frontline operational and administrative support to the Office of the Mayor, ensuring that residents, partners, and internal teams receive timely and professional assistance. This role manages daily reception operations, answers phones, greets visitors, routes inquiries, and supports the workflow of senior staff by coordinating communications, preparing documents, and ensuring tasks move efficiently across the office. The Administrative Assistant represents the Mayor’s Office with professionalism, warmth, and a resident-focused spirit—helping ensure every interaction is responsive, courteous, and aligned with the administration’s commitment to exceptional public service.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure residents receive timely, accurate, and respectful responses when contacting the Mayor’s Office
Support a high-access, resident-centered culture within the Mayor’s Office
Improve intake, routing, and follow-up processes for constituent concerns and service requests
Strengthen communication channels between residents, city departments, and the Mayor’s Office
Support transparency and responsiveness in alignment with the Sheffield Administration’s commitment to dignity and trust
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Answer phones, greet visitors, manage the reception area, and serve as the first point of contact for the public
Route inquiries, service requests, and concerns to appropriate staff or departments and ensure timely follow-up
Provide administrative support including scheduling assistance, document preparation, filing, and data entry
Support constituent-service tracking systems and help maintain accurate logs of calls, issues, and resolutions
Assist with preparation of meeting materials, briefings, correspondence, and internal communication
Coordinate incoming mail, deliveries, and document flow throughout the office
Support special projects, public-facing events, and community-engagement efforts as assigned
Maintain a professional, welcoming, and organized office environment
Represent the Mayor’s Office with exceptional customer service, confidentiality, and discretion
Qualifications:
High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred
One to three years of administrative, front-desk, receptionist, or customer-service experience
Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills
Ability to manage sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism
Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service and resident-centered interaction
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email systems, and basic database tools
Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, city services, and community environment preferred
Ability to remain calm, patient, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment
Strong judgment, reliability, and willingness to support a wide range of office needs
Rate of Pay: $40,000 – $70,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor serves as the central hub of Detroit’s executive leadership and is responsible for delivering responsive, resident-centered governance that advances the priorities of Mayor-Elect Sheffield. The office manages high-impact programs, constituent service, citywide communication, and cross-departmental coordination that ensures Detroiters experience government that is accessible, transparent, and accountable. As the first point of contact for many residents, partners, and stakeholders, the Mayor’s Office plays a critical role in shaping public trust, responding to community needs, and ensuring that the administration’s work reflects the voices and priorities of Detroiters across all neighborhoods.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Administrative Assistant provides frontline operational and administrative support to the Office of the Mayor, ensuring that residents, partners, and internal teams receive timely and professional assistance. This role manages daily reception operations, answers phones, greets visitors, routes inquiries, and supports the workflow of senior staff by coordinating communications, preparing documents, and ensuring tasks move efficiently across the office. The Administrative Assistant represents the Mayor’s Office with professionalism, warmth, and a resident-focused spirit—helping ensure every interaction is responsive, courteous, and aligned with the administration’s commitment to exceptional public service.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure residents receive timely, accurate, and respectful responses when contacting the Mayor’s Office
Support a high-access, resident-centered culture within the Mayor’s Office
Improve intake, routing, and follow-up processes for constituent concerns and service requests
Strengthen communication channels between residents, city departments, and the Mayor’s Office
Support transparency and responsiveness in alignment with the Sheffield Administration’s commitment to dignity and trust
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Answer phones, greet visitors, manage the reception area, and serve as the first point of contact for the public
Route inquiries, service requests, and concerns to appropriate staff or departments and ensure timely follow-up
Provide administrative support including scheduling assistance, document preparation, filing, and data entry
Support constituent-service tracking systems and help maintain accurate logs of calls, issues, and resolutions
Assist with preparation of meeting materials, briefings, correspondence, and internal communication
Coordinate incoming mail, deliveries, and document flow throughout the office
Support special projects, public-facing events, and community-engagement efforts as assigned
Maintain a professional, welcoming, and organized office environment
Represent the Mayor’s Office with exceptional customer service, confidentiality, and discretion
Qualifications:
High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred
One to three years of administrative, front-desk, receptionist, or customer-service experience
Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills
Ability to manage sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism
Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service and resident-centered interaction
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email systems, and basic database tools
Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, city services, and community environment preferred
Ability to remain calm, patient, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment
Strong judgment, reliability, and willingness to support a wide range of office needs
Rate of Pay: $40,000 – $70,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
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Job description forthcoming.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor serves as the executive leadership center of the City of Detroit, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s policy agenda, coordinating citywide strategy, and delivering service to neighborhoods and residents. The Chief Counsel leads the Mayor’s in‑house legal team and serves as principal legal advisor to the Mayor, senior leadership, and City departments. The office provides legal oversight, risk management, regulatory compliance, legislative review, contract negotiation, ethics guidance, litigation strategy, and interagency coordination. Under the Mayor‑Elect’s administration, legal guidance plays a critical role in promoting transparency, equity, neighborhood stabilization, and accountable public service.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Chief Counsel reports directly to the Mayor and serves as the administration’s top legal advisor, managing all major legal matters impacting the executive branch of the City. The Chief Counsel provides strategic legal guidance on legislation, policy development, intergovernmental agreements, contracts, public records, ethics, regulatory compliance, and litigation risk. This role requires a seasoned attorney with substantial municipal or governmental legal experience, strong judgment, political acumen, and the ability to lead in high-stakes, rapidly evolving environments. The Chief Counsel ensures that legal strategy supports equitable governance, sound decision‑making, and the effective delivery of services to residents.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensuring that major policy initiatives—such as neighborhood revitalization, housing stability, public health, and economic opportunity—are supported by strong legal frameworks.
Providing legal leadership that enables the City to negotiate major agreements, innovate in service delivery, and safeguard public assets.
Advising the Mayor on transparency laws, ethics obligations, regulatory changes, and governance reforms.
Coordinating legal strategy across departments, City Council, external partners, and state and federal agencies.Promoting proactive risk management, compliance, and equitable legal practices.
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead the Mayor’s legal office, establish strategic priorities, and supervise senior legal staff.
Advise the Mayor on legislation, executive orders, contracts, redevelopment agreements, public‑private partnerships, and procurement.
Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, MOUs, land‑use agreements, and other legal instruments.
Oversee compliance with state and federal laws, local ordinances, ethics standards, and transparency requirements.
Serve as senior legal counsel for major initiatives involving housing, neighborhood development, public health, and infrastructure.
Coordinate legal strategy with the Law Department, departmental attorneys, and outside counsel.
Prepare legal briefings, decision memos, and strategic assessments for the Mayor and executive leadership.
Monitor legal developments impacting the City’s operations and policy agenda.
Strengthen legal frameworks supporting neighborhood‑driven development and equitable services.
Qualifications:
Member in good standing of the Michigan Bar and eligible to practice law in Michigan.
At least ten years of legal experience, including significant municipal or governmental practice.
Experience advising elected officials or senior executives in high‑stakes environments.
Strong background in municipal law, contracts, procurement, land‑use, litigation management, and public‑sector governance.
Exceptional judgment, communication, and leadership skills.
Record of proactive risk management, strategic thinking, and organizational leadership.
Commitment to equitable governance, neighborhood inclusion, and transparent operations.
Experience in Detroit or a major urban municipal environment strongly preferred.
Juris Doctor required; additional specialization preferred.
Rate of Pay: $170,000-$304,736 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
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Chief of Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention
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 Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention—housed within the Mayor’s Office—serves as the administration’s central coordinating body for improving the physical, mental, and behavioral health of Detroit residents while addressing the social and economic conditions that shape community well-being. The office aligns Detroit’s major health- and human-service functions, including the Detroit Health Department, the new Department of Human, Homeless & Family Services, the Office of Immigrant Affairs & Economic Inclusion, returning-citizens supports, disability services, and family-stability programs.
The office works at the intersection of public health, social services, and housing stability to execute a citywide strategy that removes systemic barriers, improves access to care, and strengthens the safety net for families, seniors, youth, immigrants, and Detroiters experiencing homelessness. Guided by Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s commitment to dignity-centered service and neighborhood-level access, the office partners with community organizations, hospitals, philanthropic institutions, county and state agencies, DWIHN, and neighborhood-based providers to build a unified, resident-focused ecosystem of care.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Chief of Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention is a senior executive responsible for leading Detroit’s integrated strategy to improve population health, expand access to human services, and redesign the homelessness-response system. The Chief oversees all strategies addressing the physical, mental, and behavioral health of residents; leads efforts to confront the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect Detroiters; and drives a holistic homelessness-prevention and housing-stability agenda.
This role provides strategic leadership over the new Human, Homeless & Family Services Department, the Detroit Health Department, the Office of Immigrant Affairs & Economic Inclusion, Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hub service delivery, and cross-government collaborations with housing, workforce, senior services, and community-safety partners. The Chief is responsible for reframing the City’s approach to homelessness by advancing upstream prevention strategies, coordinating system-wide service improvements, and designing innovative, trauma-informed models in close collaboration with neighborhood organizations, philanthropic partners, healthcare systems, and regional agencies. The ideal leader brings deep experience in complex urban service systems, strong operational management skills, and a demonstrated commitment to equity, accountability, and partnership with frontline providers and community networks.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Lead the creation and launch of Detroit’s integrated Health, Human Services & Homelessness Prevention governance model
Implement a comprehensive, upstream homelessness-prevention strategy rooted in addressing social determinants of health, economic insecurity, and neighborhood-level barriers
Design and advance a holistic homelessness action plan improving outreach, diversion, shelter operations, case management, supportive housing access, and system-wide coordination
Embed walk-in behavioral-health, primary-care, benefits-navigation, family-support, and crisis-response services within Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs
Strengthen maternal and infant health outcomes through expanded prenatal, postpartum, doula, lactation, and newborn-stabilization supports
Expand community-based mental-health and crisis-response capacity in partnership with DWIHN, EMS, Fire, hospitals, and neighborhood-based providers
Improve senior well-being, aging-in-place supports, and social-connection programs in coordination with Senior Services and community partners
Strengthen environmental-health protections for air quality, flooding, industrial emissions, and extreme-heat events
Expand supports for immigrants, returning citizens, residents with disabilities, and families facing compounding barriers
Create and operationalize a City Information Exchange (CIE) to improve data-sharing, case continuity, accountability, and performance measurement
Align funding, partnerships, and service systems to provide a seamless, resident-centered experience.
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 citywide strategy for population health, human services, and homelessness prevention, ensuring alignment across agencies and partners
Oversee the Detroit Health Department and the Human, Homeless & Family Services Department, providing unified executive direction
Strengthen neighborhood-level access to health and human-service resources through citywide hub-based service delivery
Direct Detroit’s homelessness-response system, including outreach, diversion, crisis stabilization, emergency shelter, and supportive housing pathways
Coordinate multi-agency care strategies across health, housing, behavioral-health, senior services, and community-safety departments
Build and manage partnerships with philanthropic institutions, healthcare systems, nonprofit organizations, and community-based providers
Develop policy reforms and operational improvements that address systemic gaps and improve service-delivery outcomes
Oversee complex funding portfolios, including federal, state, Medicaid-aligned, philanthropic, and City funds
Strengthen environmental-health preparedness and climate-related response capabilities for vulnerable residents
Establish and manage a performance-measurement framework that tracks population health, service quality, diversion outcomes, and equity metrics
Serve as the administration’s lead representative on public health, human-service, and homelessness-system issues
Foster a service culture grounded in dignity, transparency, accountability, and resident-centered practice.
Qualifications:
Extensive leadership experience overseeing public-health, human-service, homelessness-response, or social-service systems in urban environments
Demonstrated ability to build or transform integrated, cross-agency service ecosystems
Deep knowledge of social determinants of health, trauma-informed care, behavioral-health systems, maternal health, chronic-disease prevention, and homelessness-response models
Experience coordinating diverse funding streams including federal block grants, state programs, Medicaid partnerships, and philanthropic investments
Track record of improving homelessness-response systems including crisis outreach, diversion, shelter operations, supportive housing, and rapid rehousing
Strong community-engagement experience with residents, faith networks, neighborhood organizations, frontline providers, and regional/system-level partners
Familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, human-service landscape, and structural barriers affecting residents
Demonstrated ability to launch or scale community-centered initiatives with measurable outcomes
Strong communication, planning, organizational-management, and data-driven decision-making skills
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in Social Work, Public Health, Public Administration, Human Services, Urban Planning, or related field preferred
Candidates with deep Detroit experience and neighborhood-based relationships strongly encouraged to apply.
Rate of Pay: $179,000 - $304,000 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.
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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 - $304,000 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.
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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.
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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 OFFICEThe 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 ROLEThe 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 - $304,736 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.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) oversees day-to-day municipal operations and works across Detroit’s service departments to ensure that residents receive high-quality, reliable, and responsive services. The office oversees Public Works, General Services, Transportation, Information Technology, and other operational units to oversee demolition and construction activity, strengthen performance, modernize systems, and support the Mayor’s commitment to a government that listens, heals, and delivers.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Chief Operating Officer serves as the senior executive responsible for coordinating Detroit’s operational departments and advancing citywide performance. Reporting directly to the Mayor, the COO leads strategic planning, service delivery improvements, operational excellence initiatives, and cross-departmental coordination. The role provides executive leadership to department directors, ensures consistent implementation of citywide policies, drives modernization efforts, and represents the Mayor with internal and external stakeholders on operational matters.
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Provide leadership and direction to Detroit’s operational departments to ensure alignment with the Mayor’s priorities.
Develop and implement citywide operational systems and performance standards that promote efficiency, accountability, and customer service.
Oversee interdepartmental coordination to address cross-functional challenges and improve service delivery.
Support the Mayor in executive and administrative duties, including evaluation of departmental management and operations.
Lead operational planning, resource allocation, workforce deployment, and performance management initiatives.
Oversee departmental budgets, monitor spending, and recommend adjustments to support service improvements.
Advance major operational projects such as technology upgrades, infrastructure optimization, and resident-facing improvements.
Represent the Mayor in meetings with City Council, residents, business leaders, labor partners, and regional agencies.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing municipal operations.
Build a culture of accountability, integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement across operational departments.
Supervise senior operational leaders and support leadership development across City operations.
Prepare executive-level reports, operational analyses, and communication materials for the Mayor.
Facilitate committees, task forces, and cross-departmental teams addressing operational priorities.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Mayor.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, law, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.
Five (5) or more years of senior management experience in a municipal government or equally complex organization, with responsibility for multiple divisions or service lines.
Deep operational knowledge of government processes, including service delivery systems, infrastructure, facilities, IT, fleet management, and inter-departmental coordination.
Proven skills in performance management, process improvement, organizational development, and operational strategic planning.
Strong financial acumen, including direct experience managing large departmental budgets, overseeing resource allocation, and monitoring operational spending.
Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with City leadership (Mayor, Council), department directors, labor unions, community stakeholders, regional partners, and business leaders.
Exceptional decision-making and judgment capabilities; ability to analyze complex issues, make data-informed recommendations, and lead through politically sensitive situations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of executive-level reports, presentations, and briefings for the Mayor and external audiences.
Track record of working successfully with diverse communities and implementing resident-centered service delivery models that advance equity and inclusion.
High emotional intelligence, professionalism, adaptability, and capacity to lead teams through change and deliver operational excellence in a dynamic city environment.
Working knowledge of Detroit, its communities, and local government, or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge.
Rate of Pay: $166,516 - $249,728 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
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor leads Detroit’s citywide agenda to strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and ensure every resident’s voice shapes the future of the city. Within this structure, the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs oversees programs, departments, and initiatives that bring government directly to Detroiters—amplifying community voices, supporting block clubs and neighborhood associations, and ensuring that resident feedback meaningfully influences policy, service delivery, and major decision-making. The Coalitions and Advocacy Coordinator is housed within this neighborhood-centered leadership vertical and plays a crucial role in building and sustaining relationships across community coalitions, advisory boards, special-population liaisons, and resident-led networks that anchor Detroit’s civic and neighborhood life.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Coalitions and Advocacy Coordinator serves as the Administration’s central organizer and relationship engine for resident-driven input, cross-neighborhood coalitions, advisory councils, and special-population engagement. Reporting to the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs, the Coordinator ensures that resident concerns, community ideas, and neighborhood priorities are gathered, synthesized, and elevated into actionable recommendations that influence housing, economic development, mobility, public safety, and other major citywide initiatives. The role requires a leader with deep community relationships, experience working inside Detroit’s neighborhood ecosystem, strong facilitation and communication skills, and the ability to translate community feedback into accurate, timely, and actionable insights for senior leadership. The Coordinator also supports the development and management of diverse advisory boards, liaisons, and coalitions to ensure that Detroit’s residents feel directly connected to—and directly heard by—the Mayor’s Office.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Strengthen Detroit’s block clubs, neighborhood associations, and resident-driven networks as core partners in City decision-making
Ensure that resident input meaningfully informs housing development, neighborhood planning, economic development, and program design
Support the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs in building inclusive coalitions across youth, seniors, immigrant communities, returning citizens, and disability-advocacy groups
Build and maintain advisory boards and special-population liaisons that reflect Detroit’s diversity and lived experience
Advance the Mayor’s commitment to dignity, transparency, and resident participation in government
Ensure that neighborhood insight and community data are systematically collected, evaluated, and incorporated into policy, programs, and service improvements
Strengthen communication channels between residents, City departments, and executive leadership to ensure feedback loops are closed
Promote equitable representation across neighborhoods, ensuring that historically underrepresented voices are centered in major City initiativesThis description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Develop and maintain citywide coalitions, advisory groups, and community councils that reflect Detroit’s neighborhoods and diverse resident populations
Coordinate liaisons and neighborhood representatives to gather resident feedback and communicate community needs to executive leadership
Support the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs in building an integrated engagement strategy across neighborhoods, special-population groups, nonprofit partners, and civic stakeholders
Organize public meetings, listening sessions, and community roundtables to gather input on major City policies, development projects, neighborhood initiatives, and municipal services
Document, synthesize, and elevate resident concerns, ideas, and priorities into actionable summaries and recommendations for senior leadership
Partner with City departments to ensure that feedback collected from residents informs policy development, program design, and service-delivery improvements
Track and maintain records of coalition membership, engagement activities, and community outcomes to support strategic planning and reporting
Develop relationships with community leaders, block clubs, neighborhood associations, faith-based institutions, youth groups, and advocacy organizations to strengthen outreach
Coordinate communication with residents through multiple channels to ensure accessible, transparent, and timely updates on City programs and initiatives
Identify gaps in community representation and design new engagement strategies to ensure equity in participation across all neighborhoods
Support crisis-response and rapid-engagement needs when emergent issues affect neighborhoods or resident groups
Represent the Chief of Neighborhood Affairs and the Mayor’s Office at meetings, events, and community engagements as needed
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, urban studies, social work, community development, or a related field
Three to five years of community engagement, neighborhood organizing, advocacy coordination, or coalition-building experience
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community networks, and civic landscape
Experience facilitating meetings, managing advisory groups, and coordinating diverse stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to synthesize community feedback and translate it into clear, actionable insights
Strong communication, relationship-building, and cross-cultural collaboration skills
Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, community-centered environments requiring diplomacy and sound judgment
Experience working with elected officials, government agencies, or large nonprofits preferred
Commitment to equity, community voice, transparency, and resident-centered governance
Rate of Pay: $80,000-120,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 Homeland Security & Emergency Management (DHSEM) safeguards the city by coordinating preparedness, response, and recovery operations across all neighborhoods. The department works with local, state, and federal partners to protect Detroit’s 633,000 residents, its regional infrastructure, and vital public systems from natural hazards, technological incidents, security threats, and large-scale emergencies. DHSEM maintains citywide emergency plans, leads disaster-response coordination, supports community preparedness, and ensures that Detroit is equipped with the systems and resources needed to build a safer, more resilient city. The department’s work is grounded in Detroit’s tradition of resident leadership and the administration’s commitment to ensuring every neighborhood receives equitable and effective emergency support.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Deputy Director of Homeland Security & Emergency Management serves as the department’s second-in-command and supports the Director in overseeing all aspects of preparedness, response, and resilience for the City of Detroit. The Deputy Director provides day-to-day operational leadership, supervises key units, manages critical projects, and ensures smooth execution of the City’s emergency-management strategy.
The Deputy Director plays a central role in coordinating multi-agency operations, reviewing emergency plans, overseeing training and exercises, and advancing Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s vision of public safety rooted in dignity, equity, and partnership with Detroit’s communities. This leader must be able to step in as Acting Director when needed and deliver steady, decisive leadership during emergencies, severe weather events, or fast-moving incidents.
This description outlines the general nature and responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor or Director.
Core responsibilities include:
Support the Director in developing and implementing Detroit’s homeland-security and emergency-management strategies aligned with the administration’s community-centered safety priorities.
Manage day-to-day operations of key functions within DHSEM, ensuring coordinated planning, preparedness, and response activities across agencies.
Serve as a primary liaison with Detroit Police, Detroit Fire, EMS, Public Health, Public Works, Transportation, and regional and federal partners including FEMA and DHS.
Lead or supervise citywide threat and vulnerability assessments with attention to risks affecting Detroit’s neighborhoods, critical infrastructure, and vulnerable populations.
Oversee development, maintenance, and testing of emergency-response protocols for natural disasters, severe weather, technological incidents, cyber events, and security threats.
Design, coordinate, and lead multi-agency training exercises, tabletop simulations, and community-preparedness forums.
Assist in securing, managing, and reporting on federal and state homeland-security grants, including UASI, EMPG, and other FEMA/DHS funding streams.
Monitor intelligence briefings, situational-awareness tools, and operational alerts to support rapid information flow and response readiness.
Oversee components of public-warning systems and emergency-alert communications to ensure equitable, multilingual, and accessible information across all neighborhoods.
Build and strengthen partnerships with neighborhood groups, block clubs, community organizations, and faith institutions to expand local preparedness and grassroots resilience.
Ensure compliance with NIMS, ICS, NRF, and federal, state, and local regulations governing emergency management.
Manage staff teams, operational workflows, performance metrics, and departmental readiness to ensure effective, 24/7 emergency-management capacity.
Serve as Acting Director when necessary and represent the department in meetings with elected officials, regional partners, and community stakeholders.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management, Homeland Security, Public Administration, Criminal Justice, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.
Significant leadership experience in emergency management, homeland security, public safety, or multi-agency incident coordination, ideally in a large urban environment.
Demonstrated success supporting or managing responses to large-scale emergencies such as natural disasters, severe weather, technological incidents, or infrastructure failures.
Working knowledge of NIMS, ICS, NRF, FEMA regulations, and other federal, state, and local emergency-management standards, with ability to apply them in real-time incidents.
Experience assisting with or administering homeland-security grants, including UASI, SHSP, EMPG, or similar federal funding programs.
Strong competence in threat assessment, hazard mitigation, cyber-awareness, and continuity-of-operations planning, especially related to risks affecting Detroit such as flooding, aging infrastructure, industrial hazards, and power-grid vulnerabilities.
Ability to collaborate with Detroit Police, Detroit Fire, EMS, Public Works, Health Department, Transportation, regional transit systems, and utility partners.
Experience working with community organizations, resident leaders, faith institutions, and grassroots networks to build preparedness and resilience.
Clear and effective crisis-communication skills, including the ability to support public messaging and ensure equitable access to emergency information.
Demonstrated ability to support departmental operations, staff management, emergency-response systems, and training programs in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
High emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and a commitment to serving Detroit’s diverse communities with respect, dignity, and transparency.
Dedication to advancing an equity-centered approach to public safety consistent with Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s values and vision.
Rate of Pay: $86,297 - $144,060 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.
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Job description forthcoming.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Mayor’s Office is the executive nerve center of Detroit’s government, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s vision, shaping the public narrative, and maintaining direct lines of communication with residents. Within this office, the Digital & Creative Director plays a singular role: creating and managing all digital content that represents the Mayor—her voice, her priorities, her leadership, and her connection to the people of Detroit.
This position operates entirely within the Mayor’s communications ecosystem, separate from department-level public information. The role exists to ensure that the Mayor’s digital presence is authentic, modern, accessible, and deeply reflective of her community-first leadership style.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Digital & Creative Director is the Mayor’s dedicated creative strategist, responsible for shaping every aspect of her digital storytelling and public-facing image. This leader develops, produces, and manages all multimedia content that represents the Mayor—across platforms, formats, and audiences.
Operating with a high degree of independence, judgment, and creative rigor, the Director captures the Mayor’s day-to-day work, speech, priorities, and neighborhood presence, turning them into compelling narratives that resonate with Detroiters. The role requires speed, accuracy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to producing high-quality digital work that reflects the Mayor’s values and strengthens her relationship with residents.
The Director works closely with the Mayor, Chief of Staff, senior communications staff, and advance/scheduling teams to ensure content is strategically aligned, timely, and seamlessly integrated into the Mayor’s overall communications strategy.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Developing a digital strategy that amplifies the Mayor’s message of equity, community healing, and resident-centered leadership.
Building a strong, distinct personal brand for the Mayor that reflects her values, authenticity, and Detroit-first leadership style.
Creating content that highlights the Mayor’s work in neighborhoods, her presence with residents, and her commitment to listening and delivering.
Making high-quality digital information accessible to residents across platforms and devices.
Elevating community voices, grassroots stories, and neighborhood experiences that reflect Detroit’s resilience and creativity.
Ensuring the Mayor’s digital communication is timely, consistent, and fully aligned with her policy agenda.
Using data, analytics, and audience insights to ensure content is impactful, relevant, and built around resident engagement.
Supporting a modern, transparent, interactive digital presence that strengthens trust between the Mayor and the people of Detroit.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead all digital content creation for the Mayor, including photography, videography, graphics, captions, writing, and editing.
Manage all official social-media platforms operated in the Mayor’s name and oversee content calendars and posting strategies.
Develop a unique, coherent visual identity and brand voice exclusively for the Mayor.
Provide real-time coverage at events, community meetings, press conferences, and neighborhood engagements.
Translate the Mayor’s policies, speeches, and values into compelling digital narratives.
Produce signature content series that highlight resident stories, neighborhood impact, and community-based leadership.
Work closely with communications, scheduling, and advance teams to ensure digital content aligns with upcoming events, priorities, and messaging needs.
Use analytics to refine content strategy and strengthen engagement across platforms.
Manage creative workflows, including approvals, revisions, archiving, and content organization.
Oversee outside creative collaborators as needed and ensure all work meets the Mayor’s brand and quality standards.
Ensure the Mayor’s online presence is modern, accurate, consistent, and deeply rooted in Detroit’s culture, communities, and stories.
Work extended and flexible hours based on the Mayor’s schedule.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Digital Media, Graphic Design, Marketing, Film, or a related field
3–5+ years of experience in digital content creation, social media management, multimedia production, or creative direction; political or campaign experience strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to shape the digital identity or brand of a public figure, elected official, or executive leader.
Strong portfolio showcasing multimedia storytelling across platforms.
Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, video-editing tools, photography, and design.
Ability to work quickly, capture content in fast-moving environments, and deliver high-quality work under pressure.
Excellent writing and copyediting skills tailored for social media and digital platforms.
Experience managing executive-level communication workflows, approvals, and rapid-response content needs.
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, culture, history, and community landscape.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and nontraditional hours as required by the Mayor’s schedule.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,889 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 Community Violence Intervention leads Detroit’s work to reduce shootings, homicides, and interpersonal violence through prevention, intervention, trauma-response, and community-based strategies. The office partners with residents, outreach organizations, hospitals, youth programs, faith communities, Detroit Police Department, and regional stakeholders to advance a public-health approach to violence reduction. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield, the City is prioritizing neighborhood-rooted safety strategies that address the root causes of violence, support families impacted by trauma, and ensure every Detroiter can live with safety, dignity, and opportunity.This office coordinates citywide CVI strategy, invests in frontline outreach, aligns youth and family services, and ensures data-driven, accountable implementation. It plays a central role in shaping a safer, more connected Detroit by strengthening community infrastructure, expanding re-entry supports, interrupting cycles of retaliation, and elevating trusted messengers who know Detroit’s neighborhoods best.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Community Violence Intervention serves as Detroit’s senior leader for violence-prevention strategy and oversees the citywide CVI ecosystem. The Director reports to the Mayor (or COO/Chief of Staff) and is responsible for developing and coordinating programs that reduce gun violence, strengthen street-outreach capacity, support youth and families impacted by trauma, and expand community-driven approaches to safety.This role requires a leader with deep experience in violence-prevention work in urban communities, a strong grounding in public-health models, and the ability to collaborate across agencies—including police, public health, human services, hospitals, schools, and nonprofit partners. The Director must be skilled in partnership-building, crisis response, program design, data-driven strategy, and community trust.
Aligned with the Mayor-Elect’s priorities, the Director will advance an approach to safety rooted in prevention, accountability, opportunity, and healing. The Director ensures programs reach the neighborhoods most impacted by violence and that investments reflect Detroit’s values of equity, community voice, and respect for lived experience.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Lead Detroit’s public-health approach to violence prevention, ensuring that strategies reflect the needs of the neighborhoods most impacted by gun violence.
Expand community-based violence-intervention programs, including street outreach, crisis response, hospital-based intervention, and reentry supports.
Strengthen partnerships with trusted messengers, youth-serving organizations, faith-based institutions, and neighborhood groups to reduce retaliatory violence and support healing.
Coordinate with Detroit Police Department while maintaining a distinct community-based mandate focused on prevention, not enforcement.
Advance data-driven strategies that track violence trends, evaluate program impact, and guide resource allocation in high-need areas.
Support the Mayor’s commitment to addressing root causes of violence by integrating services related to housing stability, economic opportunity, behavioral health, and youth development.
Lead trauma-response coordination for families and communities affected by violence, ensuring timely connection to services.
Promote equitable investment across neighborhoods and ensure that Detroit’s violence-prevention ecosystem reflects community voice, resident expertise, and lived experience.
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 comprehensive Community Violence Intervention strategy across outreach, prevention, intervention, and trauma-response initiatives.
Manage relationships with community-based organizations, frontline outreach workers, hospitals, youth programs, and neighborhood partners who support CVI programming.
Lead coordination between city departments—including Police, Public Health, Human Services, Housing & Revitalization, and Workforce Development—to align safety and prevention work.
Oversee crisis-intervention protocols for retaliatory violence, coordinating with outreach teams and service partners to rapidly de-escalate high-risk conflicts.
Develop funding strategies, manage grants, and oversee allocation of local, state, federal, and philanthropic CVI resources.
Establish performance metrics, track program outcomes, and manage data systems that support accountability and continuous improvement.
Provide regular updates, reports, and recommendations to the Mayor, City Council, and community stakeholders on violence-reduction progress and emerging needs.
Supervise CVI office staff, manage contracts with community organizations, and oversee operational systems that support frontline work.
Represent the City at community meetings, coalition gatherings, regional task forces, and intergovernmental initiatives focused on violence prevention.
Promote a culture of healing-centered engagement grounded in dignity, empathy, and community trust.
Qualifications:
Extensive experience in community violence intervention, violence-prevention program management, public health, social services, or related fields.
Experience working in neighborhoods most impacted by violence and deep understanding of root causes, trauma, and community dynamics.
Strong collaboration experience with law enforcement, hospitals, service providers, schools, and community-based organizations.
Demonstrated success managing frontline outreach programs, crisis-response teams, or violence-prevention initiatives in an urban setting.
Ability to manage grants, budgets, and complex multi-partner programs with accountability and transparency.
Skill in conflict resolution, trauma-informed care, community engagement, and high-stakes crisis coordination.
Experience using data, evaluation, and performance metrics to guide strategy and measure outcomes.
Strong relationship-building skills with ability to work effectively with community leaders, residents, service partners, and government agencies.
Commitment to equity, opportunity, healing, and resident-centered safety.
Experience in Detroit or a similar city strongly preferred.
Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in public health, public policy, social work, criminal justice, or a related field preferred.
Rate of Pay: $86,201 - $143,872 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.
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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 ROLEThe 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 – $249,728 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.
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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-$304,736 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.
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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) will serve as Detroit’s central hub for social-service coordination, household stabilization, and community-based supports. This newly created department brings together key programs and partner entities—Homelessness Services, Housing Services, Home Repair Supports, Detroit ID, Returning Citizens Services, Immigrant Affairs, Disability Affairs, and Economic Inclusion—to form a unified, resident-centered system of care.The department’s mission is to simplify access to help, reduce fragmentation across providers, strengthen upstream prevention, and address the social determinants of health that most impact Detroiters—from housing stability and food access to transportation, identification, youth supports, and economic opportunity. Guided by community wisdom and equity principles, HHFS will co-locate services, coordinate philanthropic partnerships, and build a modern data-integration system that allows Detroit to respond holistically to resident needs.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Human, Homeless & Family Services will serve as Detroit’s chief strategist and executive leader for household stability, social-service coordination, and homelessness response. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Director will oversee an integrated portfolio that includes homelessness prevention and outreach, emergency and supportive housing, family-support services, youth and senior services, home-repair assistance, behavioral-health connections, returning-citizens support, immigrant-affairs programming, and neighborhood-based resource hubs.The Director is responsible for building a seamless ecosystem of supports that helps residents stabilize, navigate services, and move toward long-term well-being. This position requires deep experience building partnerships with service providers, funders, County agencies, healthcare systems, and community-based organizations—along with the operational skill to translate policy priorities into measurable improvements in resident outcomes.
This role will advance core priorities in Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s human-services and homelessness agenda, including establishing a unified service-delivery system, implementing a coordinated action plan to reduce homelessness, expanding upstream prevention strategies, and creating Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs that bring services directly into Detroit communities.
This role will drive the administration’s human-services and homelessness priorities, including:
Lead the launch and operationalization of Detroit’s new Department of Human, Homeless & Family Services, integrating staff, programs, and partnerships into a coordinated organizational structure.
Design and implement a unified, citywide strategy to prevent and reduce homelessness, aligned with Mayor-Elect Sheffield’s Seven-Point Action Plan for Homelessness. This includes coordinated outreach, diversion strategies, shelter operations, supportive housing pathways, and improved data systems.
Build a connected ecosystem of services for residents—housing stability, financial assistance, behavioral-health supports, home repair, youth services, returning-citizens services, immigrant-affairs supports, disability resources, and family-strengthening programs—ensuring they are easy to find, easy to apply for, and easy to qualify for.
Strengthen partnerships with leading philanthropic institutions, healthcare systems, faith-based institutions, United Way’s Connect 313 model, Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, and County human-services agencies to expand funding, align initiatives, and improve quality of care.
Develop and implement an integrated data platform and City Information Exchange (CIE) that enables the City and service partners to share information, coordinate care, track outcomes, and ensure continuity of support.
Oversee home-repair assistance programs in coordination with HRD and philanthropic partners, ensuring longtime Detroit homeowners have the stability needed to remain in their homes.
Stand up the Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, ensuring services such as housing help, benefits navigation, digital access, youth supports, and social-service referrals are available directly in neighborhoods.
Coordinate a comprehensive household stability strategy, including childcare access, transportation supports, income stabilization, and workforce-readiness pathways for families facing compounding barriers.
Improve customer service across the human-services ecosystem by setting clear standards, accountability measures, and resident-centered performance metrics that reflect dignity, transparency, and respect.
Serve as the public voice for Detroit’s homelessness and human-services strategy, building trust with residents, service providers, City Council, funders, and statewide partners.
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 across homelessness response, social services, housing-stability supports, and family services, ensuring programs are integrated, well-coordinated, and aligned with the administration’s goals.
Oversee operational units responsible for homelessness outreach, emergency shelter, bridge housing, supportive housing, and housing-placement systems.
Develop policy recommendations and operational reforms that reduce fragmentation between City departments, County systems, CBOs, and philanthropic entities.
Manage strategic investments across federal, state, local, and philanthropic funding streams to maximize impact, transparency, and measurable returns.
Provide guidance to the Mayor, COO, Cabinet and City Council on human-services policy, cross-sector partnerships, and emerging system needs.
Represent the City in regional and state-level forums focused on homelessness, social services, public health, and poverty alleviation.
Establish a performance-measurement framework that tracks resident outcomes, service quality, encampment metrics, diversion and outflow rates, and cross-department response times.
Build and maintain strong community partnerships to ensure residents’ voices shape policies, program design, and departmental priorities.
Build multi-agency networks to address housing needs and create single entry point to a variety of services.
Coordinate multi-agency responses to address household needs that cut across housing, health, transportation, employment, and behavioral health.
Develop and oversee internal staffing structures, budget allocations, operational systems, and procurement functions for the new department.
Qualifications:
Extensive experience leading large-scale human-services, homelessness-response, public-health, or community-based systems in an urban environment.
Demonstrated success building or transforming cross-sector service ecosystems, ideally involving public agencies, CBOs, philanthropy, and healthcare partners.
Strong understanding of social determinants of health, trauma-informed care, homelessness-response systems, family-support services, and upstream prevention strategies.
Proven ability to coordinate federal, state, local, and philanthropic funding streams and to manage complex budgets tied to multiple compliance requirements.
Experience leading homelessness-response systems, including outreach, diversion, emergency shelter, supportive housing, and rapid rehousing.
Deep skill in collaborative leadership, facilitation, conflict resolution, and stakeholder engagement—including neighborhood organizations, faith leaders, and frontline community groups.
Sophisticated understanding of Detroit’s human-services landscape, neighborhood needs, racial-equity context, and structural barriers faced by residents.
Experience launching or scaling community-centered initiatives with measurable outcomes.
Exceptional communication, strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and organizational-management abilities.
A commitment to equity, dignity, resident voice, and a people-first vision of government.
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Public Health, Urban Planning, Human Services, or a related field strongly preferred.
Experience working in Detroit or a similar city is highly valued; Detroit-based candidates with deep local relationships are strongly encouraged to apply.
Rate of Pay: $100,000 - $304,737 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.
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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.
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Job description forthcoming.
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Job description forthcoming.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor leads Detroit’s strategic priorities to strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and support a thriving future for all residents. Public education is central to this mission. Detroit’s education landscape includes Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), more than 70 charter schools, early-childhood providers, and numerous community partners working to support students and families. The Education Liaison serves as the Mayor’s senior advisor on all education matters and is the primary point of coordination between the City, the school district, public charter entities, community education organizations, and state-level partners. The role reflects the Mayor-Elect’s commitment to ensuring that every Detroit child has access to high-quality education, supportive services, safe learning environments, and pathways to future opportunity.ABOUT THE ROLE
The Education Liaison advises the Mayor on all issues related to K–12 education, early childhood, youth development, and school-community partnerships. The role serves as Detroit’s central convener across DPSCD, charter school authorizers, school operators, early-learning providers, youth-serving nonprofits, and City departments whose work touches children and families. The Liaison helps identify challenges, align city resources, strengthen school partnerships, elevate resident and student voice, and advance policies that improve educational outcomes and family well-being. This position requires deep familiarity with Detroit’s education ecosystem, strong political and interpersonal judgment, and the ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders in a complex environment.This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Strengthen the City’s partnership with DPSCD and charter-school operators to improve student outcomes and expand access to high-quality education.
Advance early-childhood access and support the creation of safe, stable environments for Detroit’s youngest learners.
Align City departments — including youth services, public health, transportation, housing, and recreation — to support schools, students, and families.
Support the Mayor’s goals to expand safe routes to school, afterschool and out of school time programs, improve student transportation equity, and enhance learning environments through neighborhood revitalization.
Elevate youth and family voice in City decision-making and ensure policies reflect the lived experience of Detroit students and caregivers.
Coordinate with workforce and economic-development leaders to strengthen pathways from high school to jobs, training programs, apprenticeships, and college opportunities.
Monitor state and federal education policy changes and advise the Mayor on implications for Detroit students, schools, and families.
Ensure collaborative, non-adversarial engagement between DPSCD, charter leaders, and the City by building trust, transparency, and shared problem-solving frameworks.
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 Mayor’s senior advisor on K–12 education, early childhood, and youth-development issues.
Act as the primary liaison between the Mayor’s Office, DPSCD leadership, charter-school authorizers, school operators, and early-learning organizations.
Represent the City in education-focused coalitions, cross-sector working groups, and policy conversations with school leaders, state agencies, nonprofits, and philanthropic partners.
Identify challenges facing Detroit students and families and develop solutions in partnership with schools and City departments.
Coordinate City services that support schools, including public safety, public health, recreation, neighborhood improvements, environmental safety, and transportation resources.
Help schools navigate City processes, permitting, facilities support, safety protocols, and neighborhood planning efforts.
Monitor policy changes at the state level and develop briefing materials, talking points, and recommendations for the Mayor.
Manage crisis-response coordination between the City and schools when needed, including safety incidents, environmental concerns, or service disruptions.
Develop communications and engagement strategies to keep residents, families, and educators informed about City-school initiatives.
Prepare reports, updates, and recommendations regarding education priorities, youth outcomes, and cross-agency collaboration.
Build and maintain relationships with youth-serving organizations, family advocates, community coalitions, and faith-based institutions that support Detroit children.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public policy, education, public administration, social work, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
At least five years of experience in education policy, school-district administration, charter-school management, youth development, government, or related roles.
Deep understanding of Detroit’s education landscape, including DPSCD, charter-school governance, early-childhood systems, and youth-serving organizations.
Proven ability to collaborate with executive-level leaders, elected officials, educators, families, and community partners.
Strong policy, research, and analytical skills with ability to translate data into actionable recommendations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to represent the Mayor’s Office in high-level conversations.
Experience developing cross-sector partnerships and coordinating services for children and families.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, family-centered service, and improving outcomes for Detroit students.
Ability to work flexible hours in support of community meetings, school events, and time-sensitive matters.
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.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) drives day-to-day operational excellence across Detroit’s service-delivery departments, ensuring that city government is efficient, resident-centered, and accountable. The COO oversees major operational units—spanning infrastructure, public services, mobility, facilities, sanitation, and critical field operations—and works across departments to deliver reliable, high-quality services to all Detroiters. The office plays a central role in aligning operations with Mayor Sheffield’s priorities: equitable service delivery, neighborhood-level responsiveness, transparency, and a government that meets residents where they are.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer provides high-level administrative, operational, and strategic support to ensure the COO’s office runs smoothly and effectively. This role manages the COO’s complex schedule, prioritizes daily information flow, prepares briefings and presentations, and ensures that deliverables from departments and senior staff are completed on time and aligned with the administration’s priorities. The Executive Administrative Assistant acts as an extension of the COO—anticipating needs, coordinating cross-departmental communication, and helping guide the COO’s focus toward Detroit’s most urgent and impactful operational challenges. The role requires exceptional judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, highly sensitive environment where reliability, discretion, and professionalism are essential.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Support the COO’s efforts to modernize city operations and strengthen service delivery in every neighborhood
Ensure communication, scheduling, and operational workflows reflect the administration’s commitment to resident-centered service
Help coordinate major operational initiatives tied to blight reduction, sanitation, mobility, infrastructure, parks, and public spaces
Strengthen follow-through and accountability across operational departments aligned with the Mayor’s priorities
Assist in the COO’s efforts to drive cross-departmental collaboration and problem solving
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:
Manage the COO’s high-volume calendar, prioritizing time, commitments, and operational demands with sound judgment
Coordinate briefing materials, agendas, talking points, and reports to ensure the COO is well prepared for meetings, site visits, public events, and internal discussions
Track deadlines, deliverables, and follow-up items from departments, ensuring timely handoff and accountability
Serve as a key communication hub between the COO, senior leadership, department heads, and external partners
Prepare presentations, internal memos, summaries, and executive-level documents that support the COO’s priorities
Monitor ongoing city operational initiatives and assist in organizing information for quick decision-making
Anticipate needs and proactively identify scheduling, briefing, or operational gaps that may impact the COO’s effectiveness
Support the planning and execution of high-level meetings, operational check-ins, neighborhood visits, and cross-departmental gatherings
Maintain records, files, and administrative systems to support operational clarity and continuity
Handle sensitive information with the highest degree of confidentiality and professionalism
Assist in onboarding new staff, contractors, or partners interfacing with the COO’s office
Provide overall administrative and logistical support to ensure daily operations of the COO’s office run smoothly
Qualifications:
At least five years of executive-level administrative or operational support experience, preferably in government, public-sector, or fast-paced executive environments
Strong knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, city departments, and municipal service landscape preferred
Demonstrated ability to manage complex schedules, high-stakes logistics, and competing priorities with confidence and discretion
Exceptional writing, editing, and document-preparation skills
Experience preparing briefing materials, presentations, summaries, and executive communications
Strong project-management skills with the ability to track deadlines and manage follow-through
High emotional intelligence and ability to work with diverse teams, department heads, union partners, and community stakeholders
Ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment with shifting priorities
Strong judgment, discretion, and professionalism in handling confidential information
Commitment to equity, transparency, resident-centered service, and the values of the Sheffield Administration
Rate of Pay: $61,472-$92,028 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.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor serves as the executive leadership hub for the City of Detroit, driving strategy, policy execution, and cross-departmental coordination to deliver high-quality services for residents. The Chief of Staff oversees operational alignment across the administration, ensuring that the Mayor’s priorities advance with focus, discipline, and accountability. The Executive Administrative Assistant supports this high-impact work by managing key administrative functions, coordinating major initiatives, and ensuring seamless execution of day-to-day operations at the center of city government.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Staff is a trusted, high-judgment partner responsible for ensuring the Chief of Staff’s time, workflow, and priorities are managed with precision. This role oversees complex calendar management, prepares briefing materials and presentations, tracks deliverables, and ensures timely follow-through across executive leadership. The position requires exceptional organizational ability, strong communication skills, proactive problem-solving, and the capacity to anticipate needs before they arise. The Assistant plays a pivotal role in translating the Chief of Staff’s direction into clear workflows, supporting smooth interdepartmental coordination, and ensuring that all meetings and engagements are strategically aligned with the Mayor’s priorities.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure seamless administrative operations that support the execution of the Mayor’s priorities
Strengthen communication and coordination between the Mayor’s Office and departments
Support efficient internal workflows that reinforce accountability, transparency, and resident-focused governance
Ensure preparation and readiness for meetings, events, and briefings aligned with the Administration’s strategic goals
Maintain systems that help safeguard the Chief of Staff’s time, focus, and energy
Support executive-level project management that moves priority initiatives forward
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:
Manage the Chief of Staff’s complex and dynamic calendar, ensuring meetings are aligned with strategic priorities
Coordinate closely with internal and external stakeholders to schedule briefings, strategy sessions, and sensitive engagements
Prepare, edit, and organize briefing materials, talking points, memos, agendas, and presentation decks for the Chief of Staff
Ensure all briefing materials are delivered to the Chief of Staff and Mayor’s Office leadership in a timely and organized manner
Track deliverables, deadlines, and follow-up requests from meetings to ensure timely completion
Serve as a communication conduit between the Chief of Staff and senior executives, ensuring clarity, alignment, and discretion
Coordinate logistics for high-level meetings, including prep sessions, staffing assignments, and required materials
Conduct research and gather information needed to support decision-making and executive workflows
Draft correspondence and communications on behalf of the Chief of Staff as requested
Manage administrative systems, records, documents, and executive files with confidentiality and precision
Support project framing and scoping for initiatives that require cross-departmental coordination
Provide operational and logistical support for special projects, events, and Mayor’s Office initiatives
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, business administration, communications, or related field preferred
At least three to five years of experience supporting senior executives, preferably in government, nonprofit leadership, or complex organizational environments
Exceptional organizational and project-management skills with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing deadlines
High-level calendar-management experience supporting executives with demanding, fast-moving schedules
Strong written, verbal, and presentation-preparation skills with meticulous attention to detail
Ability to prepare, synthesize, and format briefing materials for executive-level decision-making
Discretion, sound judgment, and a deep understanding of confidential environments
Proactive problem-solver able to anticipate needs and manage issues before they escalate
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments
Commitment to public service, equity, and the resident-centered values of the Administration
Familiarity with Detroit’s government structure, civic landscape, and community priorities preferred
Rate of Pay: $XX– $XX 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
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Job description forthcoming.
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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 is the executive center of Detroit’s government, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s agenda, coordinating major initiatives, and maintaining trusted communication with residents. The Executive Communications Specialist (Speechwriter) is a central member of the Communications & Public Affairs team, responsible for crafting the Mayor’s voice, message, and narrative across speeches, remarks, written statements, and long-form storytelling. This role ensures that every public communication reflects Detroit’s values, priorities, and diverse communities.ABOUT THE ROLE
The Executive Communications Specialist (Speechwriter) develops all major speeches, prepared remarks, talking points, written communications, and message frameworks for the Mayor. The role requires exceptional writing ability, sound political judgment, and the capacity to translate complex ideas, policy priorities, resident experiences, and community stories into clear and compelling language.This position works closely with the Mayor, Chief of Staff, Director of Communications, policy teams, and neighborhood engagement staff to ensure every speech is rooted in Detroit’s lived experience and aligned with the Mayor’s strategic goals. The Executive Communications Specialist also identifies storytelling opportunities, researches policy and community issues, prepares briefing materials, and supports the Mayor’s presence across internal and external engagements.
This position is a peer to the Digital & Creative Director and partners closely with that role to ensure aligned messaging, shared themes, and narrative consistency across all digital, written, and spoken channels.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Amplifying the Mayor’s voice in ways that reflect her commitment to equity, community healing, neighborhood revitalization, and inclusive growth.
Translating policy, community stories, and resident concerns into accessible speeches and remarks that speak directly to Detroiters.
Supporting major public addresses, including State of the City, major policy announcements, crisis communications, community forums, and neighborhood events.
Ensuring messages align with the Mayor’s priorities such as housing justice, economic opportunity, public safety rooted in dignity, environmental health, and youth empowerment.
Shaping a clear narrative that celebrates Detroit’s identity, its history, its resilience, and its path forward under the Sheffield administration.
Core responsibilities include:
Research and draft speeches, remarks, talking points, statements, op-eds, and written material for the Mayor.
Develop message frameworks and narrative strategy for major policy initiatives and community-centered programs.
Partner with policy staff and department leaders to translate complex information into accessible, inspiring, and resident-centered language.
Collaborate with the Digital & Creative Director to adapt speeches into multimedia content and ensure narrative consistency across platforms.
Prepare briefing binders, event background, audience insights, and context documents for the Mayor.
Identify opportunities for storytelling and develop narratives that elevate resident voices, neighborhood experiences, and community-led impact.
Support rehearsal, delivery preparation, and on-site coordination to ensure the Mayor is fully prepared for every speech and public appearance.
Review and revise drafts in collaboration with senior advisors, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with the administration’s messaging.
Maintain an organized archive of speeches, talking points, and recurring message frameworks.
Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on the Mayor’s schedule and public-facing responsibilities.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Public Policy, Journalism, Political Science, or a closely related field.
Three to five years of experience writing speeches or senior-level communications for elected officials, public-sector executives, or comparable high-profile leaders.
Exceptional writing ability, including voice adaptation, storytelling, and translating complex policy into clear and engaging language.
Experience conducting research, synthesizing data, and framing issues for broad audiences.
Strong political judgment, discretion, and ability to manage sensitive or time-critical information.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with senior leadership, communications teams, policy staff, and community partners.
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, culture, history, and civic landscape strongly preferred.
Experience working in high-pressure, fast-paced executive environments or political settings.
Commitment to the Mayor’s values of equity, community empowerment, transparency, and resident-centered governance.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,889 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
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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 Chief of Staff’s Office is the central coordinating hub of the Sheffield Administration, responsible for ensuring that city operations are resident-centered, efficient, and aligned with the Mayor’s priorities. As Detroit enters a new era of equity-focused governance, the Chief of Staff’s Office plays a critical role in modernizing internal systems, improving coordination across departments, and strengthening how residents experience local government. Within this office, the Lean Team leads enterprise-wide process improvement—working across all city departments to streamline workflows, eliminate barriers, and help agencies deliver services that are timely, transparent, and accessible. The Lean Team collaborates with operational departments, neighborhood-facing teams, and public-service leaders to ensure that the City’s internal processes enable Detroiters to receive high-quality, dignified, and predictable services at every point of contact.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Lean Team Director serves as the City’s senior leader for enterprise process improvement and organizational performance, reporting directly to the Chief of Staff. The Director leads a cross-functional team responsible for evaluating, redesigning, and strengthening citywide operational systems using Lean, Six Sigma, human-centered design, and data-driven problem-solving methodologies. This role works closely with department heads, frontline teams, service centers, and the Mayor’s Office to identify pain points, streamline processes, remove bottlenecks, and modernize outdated workflows that impact resident experience. The Director also helps embed a culture of continuous improvement across city government—ensuring that reforms support the administration’s commitments to equity, dignity-centered service delivery, operational transparency, and improved overall quality of life for Detroiters. The role requires an empathetic, systems-oriented leader who can navigate complex bureaucratic environments and drive sustainable, measurable change across multiple departments.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Streamline high-impact resident-facing processes, such as permitting, licensing, service requests, and benefits access
Improve digital access and usability for residents navigating city services, especially seniors, low-income households, immigrant communities, and those with limited digital literacy
Develop and implement process-improvement initiatives that support equity, transparency, speed, and reliability
Modernize internal operational workflows to reduce redundancy, shorten wait times, and increase productivity
Align Six Sigma improvements with the work of the Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs and frontline service centers
Support cross-department digital integration to improve data sharing, case management, and coordinated service delivery
Increase staff training and capacity for continuous improvement across all departments
Support accountability systems that measure service speed, quality, accessibility, and resident experience
Help departments meet the Mayor-Elect’s standards for responsiveness, customer service, and resident-centered public administration
Drive innovation in digital tools that support homelessness prevention, health services, transportation supports, small-business processes, and neighborhood 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 the City’s enterprise-wide Lean and process-improvement agenda within the Office of the Chief of Staff.
Oversee design and implementation of LeanSix Sigma, and human-centered process improvements across multiple departments
Evaluate and redesign workflows for efficiency, speed, and resident accessibility
Partner with department heads to identify priority projects that remove barriers for residents or employees
Develop measurable performance targets and dashboards that track improvements in speed, reliability, and customer experience
Collaborate with digital services, application development, and IT infrastructure teams to align process improvements with system upgrades
Manage enterprise change-management strategies to ensure adoption of new workflows and technologies
Train staff across departments in Lean thinking, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methods
Conduct process mapping, discovery sessions, and data analysis to understand root causes and system gaps
Support modernization of legacy systems and align business processes with updated technologies
Work closely with the Mayor’s Office to ensure alignment between process-improvement priorities and resident-facing outcomes
Improve cross-agency coordination through streamlined data integration and workflow automation
Develop written reports, recommendations, and presentations for executive leadership and City Council
Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability across the Detroit workforce
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in information systems, business administration, public administration, engineering, or a related field
Advanced Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous-improvement certification preferred (e.g., Lean Black Belt, Six Sigma Black Belt)
Five or more years of experience leading process-improvement or digital-transformation initiatives in complex organizations
Experience working within or alongside an information-technology environment preferred
Strong understanding of organizational change management, workflow redesign, and operational efficiency
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-departmental projects and collaborate with diverse stakeholders
Experience modernizing resident-facing processes such as permitting, licensing, inspections, benefits access, or service requests
Ability to translate technical concepts into clear strategies for non-technical audiences
Strong project-management skills with experience managing multiple, high-priority initiatives
Commitment to equity, accessibility, and a resident-centered approach to government service
Knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, city services, and civic landscape strongly preferred
Ability to work in fast-moving, politically sensitive environments with sound judgment and diplomacy
Rate of Pay: $120,000-157,000 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.
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Job description forthcoming.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Mayor’s Office is responsible for delivering transparent, responsive, resident-centered governance, ensuring coordination across all executive operations, public engagements, and citywide priorities. The Office manages communication, scheduling, logistics, and strategic alignment across departments to support the Mayor’s ability to lead effectively and remain deeply connected to Detroit residents. The Scheduling and Logistics team is central to this mission, ensuring the Mayor’s time, presence, and preparation reflect the administration’s values of accessibility, responsiveness, and operational excellence.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Scheduling and Logistics Manager serves as a core operational leader responsible for coordinating, protecting, and optimizing the Mayor’s time while ensuring seamless execution of all meetings, events, site visits, and daily movements. This role manages intake and prioritization of scheduling requests, ensures all engagements advance administration priorities, and works closely with senior leadership, department heads, external partners, and the Mayor’s security detail. The Manager ensures all events are staffed appropriately, anticipates needs, and guarantees that briefing materials, pre-meetings, and preparation sessions are completed to the Mayor’s expectations. This position requires exceptional judgment, discretion, political sensitivity, logistical expertise, and the ability to manage operations in a fast-paced executive environment.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensure the Mayor’s time is aligned with administration priorities, major initiatives, and resident-focused outcomes
Strengthen coordination between the Mayor’s Office, departments, and external partners to streamline scheduling and engagement logistics
Guarantee accessibility and responsiveness by supporting community presence, neighborhood meetings, and public events
Support transparency and operational excellence through consistent preparation, briefing standards, and event readiness
Ensure safety and risk awareness through close coordination with the Mayor’s security detail
Improve internal processes for scheduling, intake, tracking, and follow-up to support efficient government operations
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:
Manage the Mayor’s daily and long-term schedule with a strategic lens, ensuring engagements advance key priorities
Coordinate all scheduling requests, evaluate alignment with policy goals, and make recommendations to senior staff
Work closely with the Mayor’s security detail to ensure all safety protocols are met for meetings, travel, and events
Prepare, assign, and quality-check briefing materials, ensuring the Mayor is well-prepared for all engagements
Schedule and manage pre-briefs, prep sessions, media readiness meetings, and follow-up debriefs
Coordinate staffing for all meetings and events, ensuring the appropriate executive or departmental representative is present
Manage day-to-day adjustments, last-minute conflicts, and urgent scheduling needs with discretion and professionalism
Oversee logistics for all off-site events, including transportation, timing, run-of-show, and stakeholder coordination
Establish and maintain strong relationships with community partners, government officials, and external organizations requesting the Mayor’s time
Ensure the Mayor’s workload, energy, and wellness are balanced, especially during high-intensity periods
Create and maintain systems for tracking commitments, deliverables, and follow-up actions
Support long-range planning for public engagements, major announcements, community tours, and neighborhood presence
Coordinate with the Communications, Advance, and Executive Operations teams to ensure events run seamlessly
Maintain confidentiality, protect sensitive information, and exercise high-level discretion at all times
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, communications, political science, business, or related field preferred
At least three to five years of experience supporting senior executives, elected officials, or high-level government operations
Demonstrated experience managing complex executive calendars and logistics in fast-paced environments
Exceptional judgment, political awareness, and discretion
Strong project-management and time-management skills with ability to prioritize competing demands
Experience preparing briefing materials, agendas, talking points, and event documentation
Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, including during rapid schedule changes
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across diverse communities and stakeholders
Strong operational instincts, proactive thinking, and ability to anticipate needs before they arise
Commitment to equity, transparency, and resident-centered governance
Deep knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community dynamics, and public institutions preferred
Willingness to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends as necessary to support the Mayor’s schedule
Rate of Pay: $50,000 - $85,000 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.
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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. The Senior Citizen Advocate plays a central role in advancing this mission.ABOUT THE ROLE
The Senior Citizen Advocate is responsible for supporting older Detroiters living in senior buildings, multifamily housing, and neighborhood communities throughout the city. The Advocate serves as the primary liaison between seniors, building managers, service providers, and city departments. The role focuses on identifying and resolving issues related to building conditions, safety, health and wellness access, transportation, social-service navigation, and quality-of-life concerns. The Advocate builds trusted relationships with residents, conducts regular site visits, organizes resource coordination, and ensures seniors have a clear pathway to city services, housing support, emergency assistance, and community-based programs. This position requires strong advocacy skills, deep knowledge of Detroit’s senior populations, and a passion for protecting the dignity and independence of older adults.This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Strengthening the city’s support systems for older adults by serving as their direct point of contact and ensuring their concerns are elevated and addressed.
Ensuring senior buildings meet safety, maintenance, accessibility, and quality-of-life standards by coordinating across departments including Housing, Public Health, Police, Fire, Public Works, and the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department.
Helping seniors to form Tenant Councils within Senior Buildings.
Connecting seniors to essential services including home-repair support, housing navigation, food access, health and wellness programs, mobility services, digital access, and emergency response.
Collaborating with community organizations, health providers, tenant associations, and senior-service nonprofits to build comprehensive support networks.
Helping seniors navigate city services and advocating for systemic improvements that improve safety, access, and well-being across Detroit’s senior housing.
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:
Respond to and track concerns from seniors living in both senior-designated buildings and general neighborhoods.
Coordinate with building managers, property owners, resident councils, and service providers to address quality-of-life issues.
Work across City departments — including Housing, Health, Transportation, Public Safety, and Neighborhoods — to ensure timely follow-up on senior-related service needs.
Conduct site visits to senior buildings to meet with residents, document issues, and monitor ongoing concerns.
Organize and facilitate listening sessions, resource fairs, and outreach events specifically tailored to seniors.
Assist seniors in navigating city programs such as home repair, utility support, eviction prevention, benefits access, and transportation services.
Maintain detailed records, case notes, logs, and follow-up systems to ensure accountability and transparency in addressing senior concerns.
Represent the Mayor’s Office at senior community events, advisory meetings, and engagements with nonprofit and philanthropic partners.
Support emergency response needs for vulnerable seniors during weather events, outages, and building crises.
Help strengthen partnerships with agencies that support aging populations, including AAAs, nonprofit senior providers, and health systems.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, human services, gerontology, or a related field (or relevant equivalent experience).
At least three years of experience working with seniors, supportive housing, property management, case management, or community-based human services.
Strong understanding of senior housing challenges, aging-in-place issues, supportive services, and Detroit’s senior-building landscape.
Ability to work effectively with seniors, caregivers, service providers, landlords, and City departments.
Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills with demonstrated compassion and cultural humility.
Experience coordinating multi-agency interventions or navigating complex service systems.Knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, senior communities, and public-service landscape.
Commitment to equity, resident-centered advocacy, and improving conditions for vulnerable seniors.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends for outreach and resident meetings.
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.
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ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor leads Detroit’s strategy for neighborhood revitalization, economic mobility, equitable growth, and long-term financial stability. The Senior Director of Population & Revenue Growth supports this mission by identifying and executing strategies to attract new residents, retain longtime Detroiters, strengthen the city’s fiscal base, and expand revenue sources that ensure sustainable and equitable investment across all neighborhoods.The office works across departments—including housing, planning, economic development, workforce, transportation, and budget—while partnering with state agencies, philanthropy, higher education, business leaders, and community organizations. This role is instrumental in shaping Detroit’s next chapter of inclusive growth, supporting the Mayor’s commitment to building a city where families want to stay, newcomers want to live, and every neighborhood can thrive.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Senior Director of Population & Revenue Growth serves as the City’s chief strategist for expanding Detroit’s population and diversifying municipal revenues. This role combines economic analysis, policy design, financial innovation, intergovernmental partnership, and narrative strategy. The Senior Director evaluates demographic trends, revenue models, migration patterns, tax structures, and barriers to growth, and then develops actionable strategies to strengthen Detroit’s long-term prosperity.This role mirrors state-level population-growth positions while tailoring its focus to Detroit’s unique context—its strong cultural identity, historic housing stock, deep community networks, industrial legacy, and emerging economic sectors. The ideal candidate brings expertise in municipal finance, tax policy, economic development, and population strategy, along with a proven record of turning analysis into measurable outcomes.
The Senior Director works closely with the Mayor, Chief Financial Officer, policy teams, state and regional partners, and Detroit’s anchor institutions to align growth and revenue strategies with neighborhood needs, racial equity goals, and Detroit’s ongoing revitalization.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Develop citywide strategies to attract new residents, retain existing families, and reverse population decline.
Identify, design, and champion policy solutions—especially tax and revenue reforms—that make Detroit more affordable, competitive, and appealing to current and future residents.
Evaluate innovative revenue tools, incentives, partnerships, and municipal finance approaches that reduce long-term structural deficits and expand stable revenue sources.
Collaborate with the Housing and Revitalization Department, Planning, and the Land Bank to expand homeownership, streamline infill development, support small landlords, and increase quality housing options.
Partner with DPSCD, early-childhood providers, and youth-serving institutions to promote family-friendly amenities, strengthen school-community partnerships, and position Detroit as a place where families want to grow.
Develop strategies to attract immigrants, returning Detroiters, remote workers, and talent from the region’s universities and employers.
Collaborate with local businesses, anchor institutions, and workforce partners to align job growth with residential growth.
Lead research and narrative development to reintroduce Detroit to potential residents and investors by highlighting the city’s assets, opportunities, culture, affordability, and momentum.
Advance equitable policy reforms that strengthen Detroit’s fiscal health while preventing resident displacement and ensuring longtime Detroiters benefit from rising prosperity.
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:
Analyze demographic trends, migration patterns, taxation structures, and economic indicators to inform population-growth and revenue strategies.
Develop and implement a comprehensive Population Growth Strategy for the City of Detroit, aligned with state, regional, and mayoral priorities.
Design policy proposals related to taxation, revenue diversification, incentives, housing, economic development, workforce, and neighborhood amenities.
Evaluate potential reforms such as earned-income tax improvements, housing incentives, workforce-mobility initiatives, childcare affordability strategies, and creative mixed-use development tools.
Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer and Budget Office to assess fiscal impacts, revenue projections, and long-term sustainability considerations.
Partner with state agencies, county officials, philanthropic organizations, and private-sector stakeholders to align Detroit’s growth agenda with regional strategies.
Collaborate with the new Office of Homeownership & Housing Rights, HRD, and the Detroit Land Bank Authority to link population growth with infill housing, home repair, ownership supports, and family-retention strategies.
Coordinate cross-departmental initiatives that improve quality of life for existing residents, including transportation, parks, recreation, childcare, mobility, small-business support, and neighborhood safety.
Lead public-facing narrative initiatives that promote Detroit’s strengths—cultural vibrancy, affordability, historic neighborhoods, entrepreneurial spirit, and community leadership—as magnets for population growth.
Create dashboards, metrics, and reporting tools to track population trends, revenue performance, retention outcomes, and strategy effectiveness.
Prepare briefings, reports, and recommendations for the Mayor, Chief Operating Officer, City Council, and external partners.
Represent the City in statewide, regional, and national conversations on population growth, municipal innovation, and revenue policy.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, municipal finance, urban planning, business, or a related field; master’s degree strongly preferred.
Extensive experience in municipal finance, tax policy, economic development, or demographic strategy in a government or large public-sector context.
Demonstrated track record of developing and implementing large-scale policy initiatives that produce measurable outcomes.
Expertise in analyzing municipal tax structures, revenue diversification tools, and long-term fiscal modeling.
Experience designing or implementing population-growth strategies, housing strategies, or economic-mobility initiatives in a major city or state.
Strong analytical, strategic planning, and economic modeling skills with the ability to translate complex data into clear recommendations.
Deep understanding of Detroit’s policy environment, neighborhoods, revenue structure, housing dynamics, and demographic trends (or experience in a comparable Rust-Belt or legacy city).
Exceptional communication skills with the ability to work closely with senior leaders, elected officials, community stakeholders, academic partners, and business leaders.
Commitment to equity, resident inclusion, and ensuring that population growth strategies benefit longtime Detroiters.
Ability to innovate, problem-solve, and think creatively about revenue and growth challenges.
Experience working across agencies or sectors to implement complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Rate of Pay: $158,000-$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.
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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 Neighborhoods (DON) is the frontline connection between residents and City Hall, working across the seven districts to ensure Detroiters can access services, shape local decision‑making, and participate fully in the city’s revitalization. Under Mayor‑Elect Sheffield, the DONs play an expanded leadership role in advancing neighborhood stability, anti‑displacement efforts, and equitable access to services through the City’s new Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, accessible community centers in key locations that bring City Departments, essential programs, and community partner resources directly to residents. DON partners closely with block clubs, faith networks, youth organizations, senior advocates, and community‑based groups to strengthen neighborhood well‑being and ensure that every resident—regardless of ZIP code—benefits from reinvestment.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Neighborhoods serves as Detroit’s chief neighborhood‑engagement and service‑coordination executive. This leader oversees district managers and field staff, drives cross‑departmental responses to neighborhood concerns, and ensures that Detroiters’ voices, needs, and priorities guide city action. The Director advances the administration’s community‑centered agenda by expanding access through Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, deepening anti‑displacement work in partnership with the Housing & Revitalization Department, strengthening safety and environmental‑health coordination, and improving city service delivery across all communities. The role requires an equity‑driven, relationship‑centered leader with deep credibility in Detroit’s neighborhoods and an ability to mobilize partners around shared solutions.
This role will drive the administration’s housing and neighborhood priorities, including:
Launch and operationalize Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs as accessible, no‑wrong‑door entry points for housing, workforce, health, senior services, and youth programs
Strengthen anti‑displacement and housing‑stability efforts, including property‑tax relief outreach, home‑repair access, and tenant‑protection awareness.
Develop district-by-district revitalization plans led by communities, stakeholders, and businesses to create vibrant corridors with amenities, food, entertainment, and business opportunities unique to each neighborhood's character and needs.
Partner with the Health Department and Human Services to expand community‑based health access, maternal‑health supports, and behavioral‑health resources.
Coordinate neighborhood‑level public‑safety efforts with DPD, Fire, EMS, and violence‑prevention partners.
Elevate community voice in development decisions, neighborhood planning, and local investment strategies.
Serve as a liaison between the Mayor’s office and community through organizing and engagement with neighborhood networks.
Strengthen engagement with block clubs, neighborhood associations, youth groups, senior networks, and faith‑based organizations.
Expand access and inclusion for immigrant communities, returning citizens, seniors, and residents with disabilities.
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 Department of Neighborhoods and oversee district managers, field teams, and engagement operations across all seven districts.
Serve as the administration’s primary liaison to residents, ensuring concerns are tracked, elevated, and resolved through coordinated multi‑agency action.
Oversee the launch and operations of Neighborhood Opportunity & Empowerment Hubs, ensuring seamless access to city services and community supports.
Coordinate responses to blight, illegal dumping, lighting issues, environmental hazards, and neighborhood‑safety concerns in partnership with DPW, GSD, BSEED, and Public Safety.
Establish and build trusted relationships with block clubs.
Build trusted relationships with neighborhood groups, small businesses, clergy, tenant advocates, and community organizations.
Collaborate with HRD to expand home‑repair access, prevent displacement, and support property‑tax relief and housing stability.
Partner with Public Health and Human Services to expand neighborhood‑based access to immunizations, screenings, maternal‑health supports, and behavioral‑health services.
Support youth and family programs addressing chronic absenteeism, violence prevention, and after‑school access.
Represent the Mayor’s Office at community meetings, district forums, public events, and regional collaboration efforts.
Manage departmental budgets, staffing, training, performance systems, and service‑tracking tools.
Qualifications:
Extensive experience in community engagement, neighborhood leadership, public administration, urban planning, or a closely related field.
Deep knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods, resident-led organizations, block clubs, faith networks, grassroots movements, and community-based institutions.
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse field teams, especially in fast-paced, community-facing environments.
Experience coordinating cross-departmental responses to neighborhood issues including blight, housing stability, environmental hazards, public safety concerns, and infrastructure needs.
Knowledge of anti-displacement strategies, home-repair resources, tenant supports, property-tax relief tools, and neighborhood-stability programs.
Strong communication, facilitation, and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to earn trust and build relationships across diverse communities.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive, community-centered problem solving.
Experience working with seniors, youth, immigrant communities, returning citizens, residents with disabilities, and multilingual communities.
Ability to collaborate with departments such as Housing & Revitalization, Public Health, Human Services, DPW, GSD, BSEED, and Public Safety.
Strong organizational, operational, and budget-management skills, including experience with performance tracking and service-delivery systems.
Experience in municipal government, community development, or neighborhood-based leadership roles strongly preferred.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 – $179,889 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.