The City of Des Moines is approaching the final decision in its search for a new City Manager, following a comprehensive recruitment process that began with 29 applicants.

The Council will continue to review final candidates’ qualifications in an executive session on Tuesday, Sept. 3 and will provide an update to the public on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024.

The City Council has reviewed each candidate, narrowing the field to four finalists who have recently participated in public engagement events and interviews (read our previous coverage and view the full video of the city’s Aug. 27 “Meet & Greet” here).

The recruitment process, facilitated by SGR, included initial screenings, interviews, and background checks. The City Council and the community had the opportunity to meet the four finalists during a series of events, including community meet-and-greets and interviews with senior city leadership. The engagement allowed both city officials and residents to gain deeper insights into each candidate’s qualifications, leadership style, and vision for Des Moines.

The City said that contractor SGR conducted extensive reference checks and media searches to ensure that the candidates were thoroughly vetted. The Council is now reviewing all collected information, including feedback from the community and internal assessments, as they prepare to possibly make their final decision on Sept. 5. The chosen candidate will be expected to lead Des Moines with integrity, ethics, and a commitment to the city’s future growth and prosperity.

In the next steps, the Council will determine whether additional interviews are necessary before making a final decision. The Council has emphasized the importance of selecting a candidate who embodies the city’s values and can guide Des Moines through its next chapter.

The selection process has been marked by transparency and community involvement, reflecting the city’s dedication to finding the best possible leader for its future.

Next Steps

  • Review of Recommendations: The Council will review all collected information, including feedback from interviews, media searches, references, and background checks.
  • Decision Making: The Council will determine if additional interviews are needed or if it is prepared to make a decision at the next regularly scheduled Council meeting. The Council will continue to review the candidates’ qualifications in an executive session on Sept. 3 and will provide an update to the public on Sept. 5, 2024.

“Thank you again for your enthusiastic participation and continued support as we work towards finding the best candidate to lead our City now and in the future,” the city said in a statement. “We are turning the page into a new chapter for the City of Des Moines, and we look forward to sharing the next steps with you soon!”