Detroit City Government Leaders Needed

As Detroit enters a critical period of transition with the upcoming Mayoral election, we have a unique opportunity to shape the leadership that will guide our future. The Cabinet Lookbook is a community-driven initiative designed to identify, uplift, and present a slate of interested and highly qualified candidates for key leadership roles within Detroit’s city government.

This project is not about making hiring decisions—it is about ensuring that progressive, equity-focused leadership is part of the conversation. The individuals featured in The Lookbook are being vetted for their commitment to progressive values, transparency, and community-centered governance. While inclusion in the Lookbook does not guarantee appointment, it signals that these leaders embody the vision and principles necessary to drive meaningful change.

By engaging a broad network of stakeholders, we are surfacing leaders who prioritize collaboration, responsiveness, and justice-centered policies. The Lookbook will serve as a resource for decision-makers and the public, ensuring that leadership transitions reflect the voices and needs of the communities they serve. We believe that who leads matters—and together, we are shaping the future of governance.

The purpose of this project, The Cabinet Lookbook, is to support and influence the leadership transition within Detroit’s city government by presenting a diverse, community-vetted slate of potential leaders who are aligned with progressive, equity-focused, and community-centered values.

All Positions Require

While each position featured in the Cabinet Lookbook has distinct responsibilities, all roles call for leaders who:

• Have a demonstrated track record of advancing the common good
• Show a strong commitment to equity, transparency, and community-driven decision-making
• Bring proven leadership in managing teams and aligning staff around shared goals, systems, or citywide initiatives
• Have experience working across sectors, departments, and/or with community stakeholders
• Understand Detroit’s unique history, assets, and challenges—and are committed to inclusive, place-based solutions
• Prioritize the needs and voices of Detroiters and neighborhoods over corporate interests
• Value data-informed strategies while centering resident voices in planning and implementation
• Uphold integrity, accountability, and public trust in their leadership Can navigate complex systems and drive ambitious, justice-centered outcomes
• Amplify the voices of historically underrepresented and disenfranchised Detroiters
• Are committed to serving a full term—not viewing the role as a short-term resume boost
• Reflect and value the city’s diversity in race, gender, sexual orientation, life experience, education, disability status, military service, or citizenship

Most Positions Will Also Require

• Residency in the City of Detroit within a specified timeframe after appointment
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed
• Possession of a valid driver’s license
• Criminal background checks for certain roles, depending on the position requirements

Health, Equity + Community Wellbeing

Focused on justice, inclusion, and public health, these leaders shape policies and programs that improve quality of life for all Detroiters. These roles operate at the intersection of advocacy, service delivery, and community empowerment, addressing systemic inequities and ensuring that initiatives are inclusive, responsive, and rooted in the lived experiences of residents. Ideal candidates bring a strong equity lens, cultural competency, and a demonstrated ability to engage meaningfully with community members—especially Detroit’s most vulnerable populations.

• Director of Civil Rights, Inclusion, and Opportunity
• Director of the Detroit Health Department
• Director of the Department of Neighborhoods

Infrastructure & Operations

These essential leadership roles ensure the reliable, efficient, and equitable delivery of core city services. Together, these leaders oversee the planning, maintenance, and innovation of Detroit’s physical infrastructure, public spaces, and transportation systems. Candidates should demonstrate strong management capabilities, systems thinking, and a commitment to sustainability and responsiveness to community needs.

• Director of Public Works
• Director of the General Services Department
• Director of the Detroit Department of Transportation
• Director of the Water and Sewerage Department

Financial Strategy & Fiscal Management

These positions are responsible for safeguarding Detroit’s financial health and aligning fiscal strategies with the city’s values and priorities. Leaders will oversee budgeting, revenue forecasting, property assessments, and long-term financial planning, with a focus on equity, transparency, and public accountability. Success in these roles requires deep financial expertise, strategic vision, and a commitment to community-centered fiscal stewardship.

• Chief Financial Officer
• Budget Director
• Chief Assessor

Urban Planning, Development & Revitalization

These roles collectively shape Detroit’s vision for equitable growth and vibrant communities. Leaders in these positions influence the city’s physical and economic landscape through strategic planning, housing development, neighborhood investment, and inclusive economic strategies. Ideal candidates bring visionary thinking, technical expertise, and a strong commitment to justice-centered development and cross-sector collaboration.

• Director of Planning and Development
• Director of the Department of Neighborhoods
• Director of Economic Development
• Director of Construction and Demolition
• Director of the Housing and Revitalization Department

Requirements

Please mention in your cover letter the position or category for which you would like to be considered.

Benefits

Please note: Compensation and benefits for these positions tend to fall between $50k - $300k depending on department, seniority and experience.