Business Manager

Take the Lead in Strategic Excellence!
Are you ready to make an impact on the City of Pittsfield by driving financial and operational success in the Department of Public Services & Utilities? As our next Business Manager, you'll be at the heart of key decisions, ensuring resources are efficiently managed, budgets are strategically developed, and operations run smoothly. Join us in shaping the future of our city's essential services, where your expertise will play a vital role in serving the community and fostering innovation!

Responsible for assisting and directly overseeing the financial and procurement management of the Department of Public Services & Utilities (DPSU).  Reports to the Commissioner of Public Services & Utilities.  Responsible for performing complex administrative and technical work in coordination with DPSU divisions in a shared vision for development in the City.  Assists with the preparation and monitoring of the department’s fiscal year budget, resolves issues regarding services, interfaces with City departments and outside agencies and develops, implements and monitors departmental financial policies, procedures and goals.  Work involves the exercise of considerable initiative and independent judgment in resolving operational problems and policy matters.  Supervision is exercised directly over Administration personnel.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supervises Administration division and assigned personnel.
• Supervise employee time tracking, payroll preparation, and maintain confidential personnel records.
• Manage interactions with the public, businesses, and vendors, resolving complex inquiries and ensuring professional service.
• Oversee procurement processes in line with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Ensures alignment of daily operations with the city’s overall objectives.
• Confers with division heads and supervisors on various public works projects and activities.
• Oversees and directs the department’s information technology systems, including the planning and implementation of new systems and upgrades, and managing content on the City’s website. 
• Assists the Commissioner in reviewing and analyzing departmental budget requests, previous expenditures, proposed work programs, and in preparing the annual department budget.
• Establishes internal procedures for control of revenues and expenditures.
• Responsible for the development and updating of a department’s financial policies and procedures.
• Assists in the preparation of efficiency and productivity studies.
• Works with the Commissioner to develop, prioritize, and recommend an annual capital asset management plan.
• Works with the Commissioner to develop, prioritize, and manage grant proposals.
• Research availability of, and prepares applications for, grants for federal or state funding assistance for public works projects and programs.
• Monitors progress towards strategic goals and adjusts as necessary.
• Assists the Commissioner in the development and execution of long-term strategic plans for the department.
• Performs work assignments related to the establishment of management control systems such as inventories, vehicle use, and gasoline usage control.
• May act on behalf of the Commissioner of Public Works in their absence or as delegated.
• Attends public meetings on behalf of the DPSU as needed or required.
• May act as liaison for the Public Works Department with the office of the Mayor, City Council, and other municipal departments.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree with concentration in business, accounting, public administration, or closely related field. Master’s degree is preferred.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public works management with specific experience in municipal budgets, personnel management and operational procedures.   
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered when reviewing qualifications. 
• Strong business acumen with comprehensive knowledge of principles and practices of modern municipal/ public administration.
• Experience preparing and monitoring a municipal budget in excess of 10 million 
• Familiarity with the modern and complex principles and practices of computerized maintenance management systems
• Ability to apply principles of supervision, training, employee motivation and performance evaluation
• Comprehensive knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations; occupational hazards and standard safety practices 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and city officials   
• Ability to communicate effectively through oral presentations and written correspondences with staff, citizens and business owners regarding departmental matters. 
• Possess a high code of personal ethics and integrity in meeting demands and carrying out the responsibilities of the position. 
• Thorough knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws and regulations regarding procurement regulations and bidding procedures.
• Proficient computer and internet skills, especially in Microsoft Office programs.

WORKING CONDITIONS (The characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

This is an office-based job in a dynamic municipal building. While performing the duties of the Business Manager, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City. Will involve attendance at public meetings outside of normal working hours. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

Occasional walking, standing and climbing; regularly uses computer keyboards requiring eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity; may involve travel to meetings and other communities. Must lift/push/pull up to 25lbs.

DIRECT REPORTS

Administrative Assistants, Office Managers and other administration division staff.

HOURS

Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week

7:30am- 4:00pm

SALARY

$89,247 - $116,021

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Thursday, October 31, 2024 @ 4:00PM or until position is filled.

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement