Description
Located in the geographic center of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Gratiot (pronounced “GRASH-it”) County is seeking a visionary leader to move the organization forward and build on the strong working relationships which are a trademark of the County and its cities, villages, and townships. Settled in the mid-1800s, Gratiot County was named for US Army Captain Charles Gratiot, and the county seat in Ithaca was established in 1856.
Gratiot County emphasizes small-town charm and a neighborly, rural atmosphere. The three cities and three villages in the County have maintained stable populations and attractive downtowns to complement safe neighborhoods and excellent school systems. Outdoor recreational and sporting activities are readily accessible including statewide non-motorized trail systems.
Gratiot County is known for its strong, home-grown, and diverse manufacturing base, which contributes to its steady economy. Agriculture is a key component of the county’s market, with 65% of land in farm use.
A new type of “farm” is also taking advantage of Gratiot’s bountiful landscape—wind and solar. Leaders in the county made alternative energy sources viable by bringing all partners together to create Michigan’s first Countywide Model Wind Energy Ordinance. The county is now home to multiple wind farms with a combined 417 turbines, and two solar energy projects are coming online.
The County Administrator is recognized as the chief financial officer within the organization, and the successful candidate will possess excellent skills in all aspects of governmental budgeting, procurement, and resource allocation. There have been three administrators in the last 15 years. In February 2025, the most recent administrator resigned after a pattern of inappropriate expenditures were uncovered by auditors.
The County offers a competitive package of benefits and has set the starting salary range for the new administrator at $120,000 to $140,000 depending on experience, qualifications, and skillset. County government management experience is preferred.
DEADLINE September 22nd, 2025
To Apply:
Please submit resume, cover letter, consent form, and five professional references to or by selecting the "Apply Now" button on the right-hand side of the page (you CAN upload more than one document):
Email: [email protected]
Subject Line: Gratiot County Search
Questions can be directed to MML Executive Recruiter Jerry Richards at [email protected].
Candidates desiring confidentiality of their interest, as allowed for and provided by Michigan law, must indicate such in a separate subject line above the body of the cover letter.
This search is conducted by an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Requirements
The County is seeking motivated and experienced local government administrators and will only consider qualified applicants who possess the following knowledge and experience:
- Required: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Public Administration, or a related field
- Required: A minimum of five years’ experience in public/government service management; county government experience preferred
