GovHRUSA
The League of Wisconsin Municipalities, WI (LWM) is seeking a highly accomplished executive leader to serve as its next Executive Director. This is a compelling opportunity for a visionary, mission-driven professional to lead a respected statewide association and play a prominent role in shaping the future of local government in a complex and evolving public policy environment.
LWM is the non-partisan, statewide association representing over 600 of Wisconsin’s cities and villages. LWM serves as a trusted voice for municipal government by providing effective advocacy, expert policy analysis, education, and practical guidance to local leaders. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, LWM works closely with state and national partners, including the National League of Cities, to advance municipal interests and strengthen local governance.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as the LWM’s Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for overall leadership of strategy, advocacy, operations, and long-term financial sustainability. The Executive Director is the LWM’s chief spokesperson and a highly visible leader with policymakers, member communities, partner organizations, and the media.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and organizational leadership aligned with the LWM’s mission and member priorities.
- Work with the Board of Directors to support effective governance and implementation of strategic priorities.
- Serve as the LWM’s principal advocate and spokesperson before state, federal, and local officials and agencies.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with members, municipal leaders, policymakers, and partner organizations.
- Lead and support a professional staff culture focused on collaboration, service excellence, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure sound fiscal management, operational effectiveness, and long-term organizational sustainability.
Ideal Candidate
- Proven executive leadership, with the ability to set strategy, deliver results, and lead through change. Prior experience guiding a nonprofit advocacy organization is a plus.
- Government relations or public policy experience, with sound judgment in complex, high-visibility environments
- Demonstrated success building coalitions across diverse stakeholders—members, policymakers, agencies, and peer organizations.
- Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to serve as a credible spokesperson and translate complex issues into actionable guidance.
- Experience partnering with a governing board to support effective decision-making and accountability.
- Financial and operational acumen, including experience overseeing budgets and resources to support long-term sustainability.
- Commitment to building and retaining high-performing teams, fostering an inclusive culture, and investing in professional growth.
- A service-oriented, member-first approach and commitment to strengthening Wisconsin’s cities and villages.
Additional Qualifications:
- At least ten years of relevant experience in local or state government or in a senior leadership position within a private or nonprofit entity, or some combination thereof; or
- Graduate degree in public or business administration, public policy analysis, or a related professional field (Juris doctorate degrees meet this requirement) with five years of experience in municipal or nonprofit management; or
- Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Compensation and Benefits
The anticipated hiring range is $200,000–$230,000 DOQ, with a competitive benefits package including medical and dental coverage, retirement (provided via the Wisconsin Retirement System), paid leave, a vehicle allowance, and hybrid work flexibility. Routine and regular travel is required.
How to Apply
Candidates must apply by April 3, 2026, by submitting a resume and cover letter. For additional information, candidates may contact Charlene Stevens, MGT Vice President of Human Capital Solutions; Yolanda Howze, Director – Executive Recruitment; or Lee Szymborski, MGT Senior Consultant, at 847-380-3240.
Application Deadline: April 3, 2026
Posted: 2026-03-03
To apply for this job please visit www.govhrusa.com.