The City of Kalispell is seeking a City Manager for this dynamic and growing community of 33,000 tucked among the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in beautiful northwest Montana. As the county seat of Flathead County, Kalispell serves as the regional hub for approximately 140,000 people. This region is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and wealth of year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.

THE CITY OF KALISPELL

Kalispell is a full-service city serving 33,000 residents across 13 square miles with a 2025 budget of $180 million and a team of 244 FTEs. Departments include Public Works (Sewer, Water, Solid Waste, Garage, Traffic Signs & Signals, Streets, Waste Water Treatment Plant, Engineers), Development Services (Building, Planning, Community Development), Finance, IT (includes GIS), Human Resources, City Clerk/Communications, Legal, Police, Fire/Ambulance, Municipal Court, and Parks & Recreation. The City operates under a Council-Manager form of government with eight City Councilors and a Mayor, each serving a four-year term.

THE CITY MANAGER

Working under the broad policy guidance of the City Council, the City Manager plans, organizes, coordinates, and administers all City functions and activities through management staff. The City Manager provides policy guidance, oversees the work of department heads and support staff, and fosters cooperative working relationships with civic groups, intergovernmental agencies, the City Council, and City staff through open communication. The City Manager has ten department directors as direct reports.

WHY APPLY

This is a unique opportunity to lead the community at the center of one of the fastest growing micropolitan areas in the country. Situated in the natural and scenic beauty of northwestern Montana, Kalispell (pop. 33,000) is looking for an entrepreneurial and forward-thinking city manager to help shape the future in this significant time of change and growth. Kalispell is a well-managed, financially stable, full-service city with an experienced team of professional department heads. Located near glacial-carved Flathead Lake and close to Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, Kalispell is known for its vast recreational and outdoor opportunities, excellent school system, low crime rate, exceptional medical services, natural scenic beauty, abundant recreational and outdoor opportunities, and commitment to historic preservation.

View the full position profile, job description, and benefits at gmphr.com.

More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Kalispell with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Kalispell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is October 26, 2025.