Deputy County Administrator

The Ideal Candidate Livingston County seeks a seasoned public sector leader who combines strong financial acumen with sound administrative judgment and a proven ability to operate in a complex governmental environment. This individual will bring experience in public fiscal administration, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning. They will be comfortable evaluating f iscal conditions, identifying risks, and presenting complex financial information in clear, actionable ways to both executive leadership and elected officials. Equally important, the Deputy County Administrator will be a trusted partner to the County Administrator—capable of stepping into that role when needed. This requires professionalism, discretion, and the ability to navigate sensitive issues, including labor relations, personnel matters, and organizational challenges. The ideal candidate is both strategic and adaptable, able to advance long-term initiatives while supporting day-to-day operations. Experience working across departments, managing special projects, and supporting key service areas—including healthcare and workforce challenges—will be important. Above all, this leader will bring integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service—helping sustain Livingston County’s reputation as a high-performing and well-managed local government.Key Competencies and Characteristics Success in this role requires a balance of strategic thinking, operational effectiveness, and strong interpersonal leadership. The Deputy County Administrator must be able to manage complexity, support executive decision-making, and work collaboratively across departments and with elected officials. The following competencies and characteristics define the experience, skills, and leadership approach needed to succeed. Financial & Fiscal Leadership Strong knowledge of public sector budgeting, forecasting, and GASB principles Ability to evaluate fiscal risks and develop sustainable financial strategies Strategic & Operational Leadership Operates effectively at both strategic and day-to-day levels Supports implementation of County priorities and cross-department coordination Communication & Relationship Management Presents complex financial and policy issues clearly Builds trust with elected officials, staff, and external stakeholders Judgment & Confidentiality Exercises discretion in sensitive personnel and labor matters Organizational Effectiveness Demonstrates professionalism in high-stakes decision-making Manages competing priorities and complex projects Promotes accountability and problem-solving across departments Executive Presence & Public ServiceTrusted advisor to leadership Strong work ethic, credibility, and commitment to public serviceKey Priorities This role offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute from day one. The Deputy County Administrator will support key financial, operational, and organizational priorities while helping the County navigate a complex and evolving environment. The following areas represent the most critical early and ongoing priorities for success in the role. Lead a Structurally Complex Budget Environment Guide development of the County’s operating budget and capital program, addressing rising healthcare, pension, and mandate-driven costs while preserving long-term fiscal stability. Advance Financial Innovation & Cost Containment Identify creative strategies to manage costs and improve service delivery, including shared services, operational efficiencies, and long-range planning initiatives. Strengthen Workforce & Organizational Stability Support recruitment and retention efforts across departments, including critical service areas, while assisting with labor relations and HR challenges. Navigate Leadership Transition & Board Dynamics Provide steady support to the County Administrator and Board during a period of transition, building strong relationships and maintaining continuity in governance. Reinforce Accountability & Organizational Alignment Promote a culture of professionalism, clear reporting structures, and alignment across departments to ensure effective execution of County priorities.Opportunities and Challenges The next Deputy County Administrator will join Livingston County at a pivotal time—one defined by strong fundamentals, evolving leadership dynamics, and increasing complexity in the public sector environment. This role offers the opportunity to build on a solid foundation while helping the County navigate key challenges and position itself for long-term success. Managing Fiscal Pressure While Sustaining Stability Livingston County has a strong financial foundation, but rising healthcare costs, retirement obligations, and external mandates will require thoughtful planning and disciplined execution. This role presents an opportunity to help guide long-range financial strategy while identifying creative approaches to cost containment and operational efficiency. Strengthening Workforce Stability and Organizational Capacity Like many local governments, the County continues to face recruitment and retention challenges across key service areas. The Deputy County Administrator will play an important role in supporting workforce strategies, strengthening organizational capacity, and ensuring continuity in critical operations. Navigating Leadership Transition and Board Dynamics With anticipated turnover among long-tenured members of the Board of Supervisors, the County is entering a period of transition. This role offers the opportunity to build strong relationships with evolving leadership while maintaining stability, institutional knowledge, and effective governance practices. Reinforcing Organizational Alignment and Accountability Ensuring clarity in roles, responsibilities, and reporting structures will be an important focus. The Deputy County Administrator will help reinforce a culture of professionalism and accountability while promoting collaboration across departments and alignment with County-wide priorities. Advancing Innovation and Strategic Initiatives The County is well-positioned to explore new approaches to service delivery, cost management, and long-term planning. This role presents an opportunity to support forward-thinking initiatives that enhance efficiency, strengthen operations, and sustain the County’s reputation as a high-performing organization.