Assistant to City Administrator

The Assistant to the City Administrator plays a critical leadership and support role within the City’s executive office. This position is responsible for managing high-priority projects, coordinating cross-departmental initiatives, supporting policy development, and directly assisting the City Administrator in the execution of strategic goals. The role demands exceptional communication, problem-solving, and project management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments, with City Council, and external stakeholders.

The Assistant to the City Administrator provides essential support to the City Administrator and City Council, helping ensure the smooth operation of city government and the effective coordination of various City initiatives. This position serves as a trusted aid in preparing policy research, reports, and administrative documentation, while also attending City Council and public meetings to assist the City Administrator and provide follow-up support as needed.

In this role, the Assistant helps coordinate work plans and track progress on assigned departmental projects. Working under the direction of the City Administrator, the Assistant monitors tasks, reviews procedures, and supports staff in addressing operational challenges. The Assistant also contributes to the development of City goals, policies, and strategic priorities by gathering data, incorporating community input, and preparing draft recommendations for leadership review.

Public engagement is another key aspect of the position. The Assistant helps manage the City’s social media platforms by developing content, responding to inquiries, and analyzing performance metrics to enhance communication with residents. The Assistant also supports the City Administrator in representing Hanahan’s interests with local, state, and federal legislative bodies. This includes reviewing and summarizing proposed legislation, preparing briefing materials, and helping coordinate advocacy efforts as directed.

The Assistant provides valuable administrative and logistical support for special projects and grant activities. Working closely with the City Administrator, the Assistant helps organize project timelines, maintain documentation, coordinate with stakeholders, and prepare status reports. The role also includes assisting with the preparation and evaluation of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to ensure procurement processes are well-supported and organized.

In the area of economic development, the Assistant supports ongoing efforts to attract and retain local businesses by helping business owners navigate City processes and by coordinating with relevant departments to facilitate development activities. The Assistant may assist with preparing background materials for business negotiations or community partnerships.

The position also provides support throughout the budget process. This includes assisting in the preparation of budget materials, reviewing financial data, compiling departmental requests, and helping ensure compliance with internal fiscal policies. The Assistant may also participate in assembling capital improvement documentation and supporting financial forecasting activities.

Overall, the Assistant to the City Administrator serves in a collaborative, supportive capacity—helping the City Administrator and City Council carry out their responsibilities efficiently and effectively, and ensuring the City of Hanahan continues to meet the needs of its residents through well-organized operations and thoughtful planning.


Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MPA, MBA) is highly desirable.
• Experience in municipal government, demonstrating broad knowledge of city operations and administrative functions, is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of municipal government operations, public administration, and strategic planning is desired.
• Some experience in budget preparation, policy analysis, program evaluation, and intergovernmental relations.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and public speaking abilities.
• Proficiency in managing multiple priorities with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Ability to establish effective relationships with elected officials, department heads, community leaders, and the general public.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid South Carolina driver’s license.