City of Santa Fe Invites Qualified Candidates to Apply for City Manager Position

SANTA FE, N.M. — The City of Santa Fe is accepting applications for a new city manager, seeking an experienced leader to oversee daily municipal operations and help advance Mayor Michael J. Garcia’s priorities.

The city manager will report directly to Mayor Garcia and oversee approximately 1,400 city employees. Responsibilities include managing municipal services, implementing city policies, improving operational efficiency and ensuring accountability across departments.

Mayor Garcia called the selection one of the most important decisions of his administration, emphasizing the need for a leader with strong management experience, a commitment to public service and the ability to deliver results for Santa Fe residents.

The mayor also praised Interim City Manager Brian Moya for his leadership, saying the city needs someone capable of continuing the level of service Moya has provided.

Candidates must have management experience in government organizations, along with demonstrated leadership, operational and strategic planning skills. The position requires working closely with elected officials, city employees and community members.

The next city manager will also help address some of Santa Fe’s most pressing challenges, including housing affordability, economic development and balancing growth with the preservation of the city’s cultural heritage and historic character.

Under Santa Fe’s strong-mayor form of government, the mayor serves as chief executive and appoints the city manager, subject to confirmation by the Governing Body.

Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital, has approximately 90,000 residents and serves a larger daily population through tourism, business and government activity.

Mayor Garcia said the successful candidate will have an opportunity to make a lasting difference by strengthening city services, supporting employees and building a safer, healthier and more prosperous community.

Applications are due by December 18, 2026, with initial interviews expected to begin in early 2027.

Interested applicants must submit a current resume and cover letter through the City of Santa Fe’s online employment portal. The official recruitment announcement also includes the full job description, responsibilities and qualifications.