Loveland Launches Nationwide Search for City Manager
The city is seeking a permanent successor for the executive leadership position following a recent retirement.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in People
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The City of Loveland has officially begun a nationwide search for a permanent city manager to lead its municipal operations. The city is currently utilizing the executive recruitment firm SGR to assist in identifying qualified candidates for the role.
Why it matters
The recruitment effort is intended to fill a leadership vacancy created by the departure of former city manager James Thompson. Securing a permanent appointment is vital for the city to maintain consistent executive oversight of its organizational goals.
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the city portal by the November 29 deadline. The city manager serves as the executive leader of the municipal organization.
The players
Brian Waldes
He is the current acting city manager and former chief financial officer for the City of Loveland.
James Thompson
He is the retired city manager who previously served as the executive leader of the Loveland municipal organization.
SGR
This executive recruitment firm is currently under contract with the City of Loveland to manage the search for a new city manager.
The details
Acting city manager Brian Waldes, who previously served as the city's chief financial officer, currently oversees municipal operations after his appointment in May. Candidates interested in the role are instructed to apply via the city-provided online portal while the city prepares for a public meet-and-greet session.
Timeline
May 2026: Brian Waldes was appointed as the acting city manager.
July 7, 2026: James Thompson retired from his position as city manager.
October 29, 2026: Recruitment materials for the new city manager were officially published.
November 29, 2026: The deadline for all city manager applications is set.
Market Landscape
The search follows the requirements established in the City of Loveland municipal governance charter for executive appointments. This move aims to stabilize the city's administrative hierarchy by transitioning from interim leadership to a permanent executive structure.
Residents can monitor the progress of the selection process and prepare for the upcoming public meet-and-greet session with candidates. This transition will ultimately impact municipal administrative oversight and the execution of city-led initiatives.
The takeaway
The city is currently navigating a period of interim leadership as it works to fill its top executive vacancy. Residents should watch for upcoming public engagement sessions to provide input on the future direction of municipal management.
What happens next
The city will hold a candidate meet-and-greet session to provide the public with an opportunity to engage with potential finalists for the position.
Further reading
For more information on local government leadership changes, visit the Loveland People section.
More information
To review candidate requirements or submit an application, visit the city manager position application portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by BizWest.
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