The city of Richmond has published a job posting for the crucial chief administrative officer position, listing a salary range of $227,280 to $379,568 per year for whomever Mayor Danny Avula hires to run day-to-day operations at City Hall.

Lincoln Saunders, who resigned from the position on Dec. 31, made $334,700 a year.

Qualifications for the job are at least a bachelor’s degree in something similar to public or business administration and at least 10 years of senior experience in a local government role. The job posting says a master’s degree is “preferred.”

Avula’s administration is working with recruiting firm POLIHIRE and The Robert Bobb Group, a consulting shop run by former Richmond city manager Robert Bobb, to hire someone for the role described as a “critical and mission essential leadership position.”

The posting largely lists general requirements and few criteria that might be considered unique to Richmond and its priorities. It notes the CAO will report to the mayor and be responsible for “comprehensive management and overall leadership” of a city government that includes more than 30 agencies, over 4,000 employees and a general fund budget topping $1 billion.

“The ideal candidate will be a demonstrated collaborator with excellent communication and conflict resolution skills, a high level of political acumen, and an appreciation for working with a diverse population with a commitment to customer service,” the job description says. “Additionally, the ideal candidate will possess sound judgment, ethics and integrity, and will have the ability to motivate employees and unite them under a clear vision in service of all residents of the City of Richmond.”

Avula’s selection of a CAO could be one of the most consequential early decisions he makes as mayor, with potential to shape his four-year term and set a new tone and focus at City Hall. 

City official Sabrina Joy-Hogg, who formerly served as deputy chief administrative officer for finance and administration, is currently serving as acting CAO after the resignation of former CAO Saunders. 

Saunders, an appointee of former Mayor Levar Stoney, resigned on Dec. 31. He was not expected to permanently stay on under Avula.

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