Appointment
I occupy a position that is appointed by an elected representative and is directly responsible to an elected representative and/or representatives.
Policy Formation
I have significant responsibility in the development and analysis of public policy alternatives and in the implementation of policy once adopted. (This means I develop public policy alternatives and recommendations for consideration by elected officials and have access to the council and work with its members.)
Budget
I have major responsibility for the preparation and administration of the operating and capital improvements budget.
Appoint Authority
I exercise significant influence in the appointment of the key management personnel of the local government and particularly the appointment of the administrative and financial staff. (In other words, I have the authority to recommend the appointment of department heads and appoint a sufficient share of the management staff to control budget preparation and administration.)
Organizational Relationships
I am recognized within the local government organization as the principal general management professional and have a continuing direct relationship with the operating department heads on the implementation and administration of the programs. (I also have direct supervision over department heads, and, at a minimum, my overall management responsibility includes the status of first peer among administrative peers.)
Qualifications
I was appointed to the position based on my education and experience and on my qualifications to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position as defined by ICMA's Practices for Effective Local Government Management. (This criterion means that you have been chosen on merit, have significant administrative experience and educational background, and will fulfill the requirement of Tenet 7 of the Code of Ethics to remain politically neutral. It excludes the strictly "political" appointment. However, it doesn't mean that you must have local government experience.)