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H01. Executive Recruiting Firm recommendationFTF City of Kalispell LL Post Office Box 1997 -Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997 YLAILISPETelephone (406) 758-7700 Fax - (406) 758-7758 MEMORANDUM To: Doug Russell, City Manager From: Denise Michel, Director of Human Resources Re: Selection of Executive Recruiting Services Meeting Date: August 18, 2025 BACKGROUND: In July, the City of Kalispell engaged in a limited solicitation for executive recruitment services to aid in the search for the City Manager position. The solicitation included formal requests for proposals from three nation-wide firms, and two local firms. Following review of the information submitted it is recommended that Council move forward with entering an agreement with GMP Consultants for the City Manager search. In addition to the competitive proposal, attached to this memo, GMP Consultants is familiar with the area and organization as this firm has recently completed the Kalispell Fire Chief recruitment. It is anticipated that the recruitment process will take 90-120 days. Staff will proceed with next steps to formalize this engagement in accordance with Council direction. Following the execution of the agreement, GMP will work with the Council on establishing a more specific timeline and outlining the process, which typically includes establishing public involvement in some fashion. FISCAL IMPACT: The fee for conducting an Executive Director search is $19,500 plus advertising and travel expenses. RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that Council enter into an agreement with GMP Consultants for the recruitment of the City Manager position. ATTACHMENT: GMP Consultants Proposal ... t ' ��. Lay,•. _ Yi..m- �i4k"," "' 4"t� x^""' + `.Ja7�,{� .�ti-' Y.F• 'Yi �.. `•'�. � _.....� .�` a x wyy. � L-�F.y� %43.1'M..�4Tu ... •.r69( W -gp '�.a r+ � C nr � .. ► re yam:. �i .. a ��� .tea -. s y l� a►L�s, �`-. � � mLs,3111 WW ,� ��5 �i a y�t�, ,yyi #c.,J"� w �. ,,. � +'��.._ - � •�'V � �• .Y fr IP ar All— JULY2025 City Manager Recruitment Proposal FOR THE CITY OF KALISPELL, MT PRESENTED BY Greg M. Prothman President, GMP Consultants ?4'�G CONSM P ULTANTS July 28, 2025 Ms. Denise Michel Director of Human Resources City of Kalispell 201 1st Ave E Kalispell, MT 50091 Dear Ms. Michel, Thank you for the opportunity to provide our proposal to assist the City of Kalispell with the recruitment of its next City Manager. What sets GMP apart from other search firms? GMP's Montana Experience - Our executive search experience in Montana includes 8 city management recruitments and 18 department director recruitments. GMPs City Management Consultant — Your consultant will be former City Manager Jeff Weldon. Jeff brings 29 years of city management experience in for cities and two states. He is also very active in the Great Opens Spaces City Management Association and has also served as an ICMA Senior Advisor for both Minnesota and North Dakota and brings excellent candidate connections. He will be supported by former City Manager Linda Woulfe who also beings 26 years of city management experience. GMP's Consultants — 18 senior consultants bring extensive city/county practitioner experience in Washington, Oregon, California, Montana, Colorado, Nevada, South Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, Iowa, Georgia and Vermont GMP's Work with Kalispell — Having recently just completed a successful fire chief recruitment for the City, GMP brings an excellent working knowledge of the community and the organization GMP's management & recruitment knowledge brings a competitive advantage in recruiting top-notch talent. As the leader in public sector executive search, we stand by our work by offering an 18-month guarantee on your selection! If you have any questions or would like to discuss your specific needs, please do not hesitate to contact me at (206)714-9499 or Greg@gmphr.com. I look forward to hearing from you and hope to have the opportunity to work together soon. Sincerely, Gr . Prothman President 206.714.9499 • 7041 Cascade Ave SE Snoqualmie, WA 98065 • greg@gmphr.com �I[sol �A,V KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal GMP Consultants is a public sector executive search firm with a collective 240 years of local government leadership experience with both regional and national relationships. GMP Consultants offer our clients experienced subject matter experts with a solid understanding of local government coupled with decades of experience. We have served in a wide range of executive positions, from city and county management to public works, management information systems, and finance. Our Qualifications Founded and led by Greg M. Prothman, formerly the CEO of Prothman, GMP consultants have worked on over 500 executives searches and over 100 public sector consulting projects. All our senior search consultants are active in both national and local state level associations or in their respective professional disciplines. .Jur Philosophy Our business philosophy centers on the understanding that this is a "people" related industry. We have a reputation for providing superior service and building lasting relationships with both clients and candidates. We believe that attention to others' needs is the key to effective customer service. 22TITAX,dil a, What you get with GMP Consultants is personal service. You appreciate it when phone calls are returned, projects stay on schedule and your challenges are given thorough and creative thinking. While other companies may assign your business to lesser experienced staff, we offer exceptional service from senior - level consultants. • Service & Relationship - Our consultants bring a reputation for providing outstanding service and building lasting relationships with both clients and candidates. • Customized Solutions - We take the time to become familiar with your organization to ensure that we offer the best solution and not just a single service. • People First - We work closely with you and your candidates through every stage of the recruitment process, creating a welcoming candidate experience and ensuring an effective recruitment outcome. • Our Guarantee — GMP is confident in its time tested and proven process. If your selected candidate leaves employment of the organization within the first 18 months of appointment, we will conduct an additional recruitment with no professional fee! GMP Consultants Mission: To provide exceptional executive search, interim placements, and organizational consulting services partnering with our clients to provide the highest quality services to their residents. GMP Page 12 1 CONSULTANTS KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS Greg M. Prothman - President Greg offers a unique combination of 20+ years of experience in various functions of government and 25 years of experience in public sector recruitment. Priorto forming GMP Consulting, Gregfounded and was the driving force at Prothman Company as its President. Prior he was a partner at Waldron & Company. Early in his career Greg served as a police officer for the University of Washington and the City of Renton. He left police work and accepted an administrative position for the City of Des Moines, WA. He was quickly promoted to Assistant City Manager and then City Manager. A Seattle native, Greg completed his BA at Western Washington University and his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the University of Washington. Additionally, he completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard University. Greg is a volunteer member of Seattle Mountain Rescue and a member of Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol. Jeff Weldon - Senior Consultant Jeff served 29 years in municipal management in Minnesota and South Dakota including City Manager for Brookings and Yankton, SD; City Administrator for Redwood Falls, MN; and Assistant City Administrator for Apple Valley, MN. Jeff was also an adjunct instructor at South Dakota State University in Public Administration and State and Local Government. Jeff currently serves local government managers in Minnesota and South Dakota with career and professional development as a Senior Advisor for the state associations. Jeff holds a Bachelor's Degree from Minnesota State University and a Master's Degree from Hamline University. He was active with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, Minnesota City/County Management Association, South Dakota Municipal League, and the International City Management Association (ICMA). Jeff is a strong advocate for community involvement and has been involved with his church, the United Way, Rotary and Lions clubs, and the Chamber of Commerce. Jeff and his wife, Tracie, have two grown children and five grandchildren. His hobbies and spare time activities include camping, boating, fishing, golf, travel, woodworking, pencil sketching and reading presidential biographies and Civil War history. Linda Woulfe - Senior Consultant Linda brings over 26 years of municipal service in Minnesota at both the city and county level. Her experience includes 19 years as City Administrator in Pine City and Cambridge where she developed and implemented new economic development strategies for business retention and was integral in developing long-term infrastructure plans for water, wastewater, sewer, and roads. Linda also brings years of experience in labor negotiations and annexations. She spent 14 years working for the League of Minnesota Cities and League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust in multiple roles. Since her retirement from the City of Cambridge, Linda has served as an Interim City Administrator for multiple Minnesota communities, helping them through key times of transition. Linda completed the University of Minnesota Public Sector Human Resource Certification Program from Carlson School of Management and holds a bachelor's degree in public administration from Metropolitan State University. Linda enjoys outdoor photography and hiking with her husband (Tony) of 43 years. Kate Hansen - Operations Manager Kate brings 20 years of project management and administration experience spanning private business, nonprofit, and government. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds a B.A. in Theatre from Chapman University, with an emphasis in stage management. Kate brings a distinguishing blend of attention to detail, creativity, and critical thinking. Having served as a fire district administrator, political campaign manager and elected official, Kate possesses multi -faceted experience in local government. She has also served on the Board of Directors for multiple non -profits. GMP Page 13 1 CONSULTANTS KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal Sarah Marsh — Content Designer Sarah brings a background across nonprofit, business, government, and education sectors. She holds an M.B.A in Organizational Behavior & Development from the University of Vermont. She also publishes in the field of American History and is the author of two books honored by the National Council for the Social Studies. Brenda Gabbitas — Project Manager Brenda has over a decade of experience working with many communities around the globe in both public and private sectors. She leans on her experiences to build lasting relationships with everyone she works with while delivering unparalleled levels of service. Brenda holds a Bachelor's of Education in Early Childhood Development from Utah Valley University. WORK PLAN & APPROACH GMP Consultants have conducted hundreds of successful executive searches and numerous organizational reviews refining our process along the way. We provide the workplan, but you are in charge, we customize every recruitment to meet your needs. We partner with you with the goal of finding a highly qualified candidate who is the perfect "fit" for your organization. INFORMATION GATHERING & RECRUITMENT PROFILE DEVELOPMENT Review and Finalize Search Process and Schedule We meet with the City to: • Review and modify as needed the project 0 Review the compensation package scope of work and process 0 Identify key stakeholders • Establish a project schedule 0 Review and discuss any additional issues as • Identify the geographic scope of the needed recruitment Profile Research and Stakeholder meetings Our goal is to thoroughly understand your City, its current challenges, preferred qualifications as well as the timeline for this recruitment. We would like to come in person to tour the City and ask to meet with: • City Council 0 City's Government Partners • Leadership Team 0 Others as Directed • Leading Citizens in the Community 0 Review All Relevant Documents Develop, Review, and Approve a Detailed Recruitment Profile We are happy to work with the City's team to create a tailored City Manager recruitment profile highlighting the strengths of your job opportunity. If requested, we will assist in reviewing the position compensation and will make recommendations that are consistent with comparable agencies and the market. Examples of prior recruitment profiles are included in this proposal and typically feature the following: • Why Apply? 0 The Ideal Candidate Traits • Quality of Life Opportunities 0 Challenges & Opportunities • The City of Kalispell 0 Compensation & Benefits • The Position • Your social media STRATEGk- iViAKKL i iNG Our goal is to not only reach candidates who are actively looking for a new job but those who are happy in their current assignment but who could be intrigued and interested in your opening. We research and develop a personalized national advertising strategy designed to reach all potential qualified candidates. The GMP Page 14 1 CONSULTANTS City Manager Recruitment Proposal KALISPELL Advertising Strategy is comprised of four components: • Targeted National Advertisement • Mailed "Invitation to Apply" Flyers • Email Outreach • Personal Calls by Lead Consultants Targeted Advertisement - We develop and place custom national advertising highlighting your agency and the Executive Director opening in websites, job boards, and periodicals such as: • International City Managers Association 0 South Dakota Municipal League • Montana League of Cities and Towns 0 Government Jobs • Association of Idaho Cities 0 GMP Job Board • Wyoming Association of Municipalities 0 GMP Linkedln Page • North Dakota League of Cities Invitation to Apply Letter & Customized Candidate Database — We create a customized Invitation to Apply Flyer (examples are included) and then develop a database of potential candidates. We will mail Invitation to Apply flyers to city managers and administrators in cities of comparable size in the 7 surrounding states. Personal Calls by our Lead Consultants — We will reach out to potential candidates who might be a good fit or who are looking for their next challenge. We will also reach out to our personal knowledge of candidates to make them aware of your opportunity. Candidate Application Materials • Application - Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, application, resume, and five professional references of peer, subordinates and supervisors • Communication - We provide the City with a summary of the advertising strategy, the number of applications and the number of candidates selected for a preliminary interview • Review of Applications - Occasionally some agencies wish to review all the application materials prior to the selection of candidates for a preliminary interview. We are happy to facilitate this process if asked, but have found that many cities appreciate not having to review applications of not qualified applicants and trust in our selection of the most promising applications including several that might be considered to have questionable qualifications in an effort to be thorough Preliminary Candidate Interviews — Once a candidate has indicated an interest in the position, we review all candidate application materials and: • Select - Identify the most promising candidates for a preliminary interview • Review - Conduct an in-depth internet inquiry on each candidate to identify any concerning issues to be reviewed with the candidate • Interview - Your lead consultant conducts a preliminary interview with the most promising candidates (we can record these for City's review if asked) • Summarize - Provide a written summary of our observations of the candidates strength, weakness and potential fit with the City • Recommend - Provide our recommendations on each candidate for consideration Work Session - We meet with the City to review the results of the preliminary interviews. Our goal is to provide comprehensive information on each of the most promising candidates providing the needed data to make quality decisions on each applicant • Information Provided Prior- Prior to the meeting we provide with sufficient time to review: ? GMP 41�CONsuL,rANr3 P a g e 1 5 City Manager Recruitment Proposal KALISPELL • Each of the interviewed applicant's cover letter, resume, essay questions • The consultant preliminary interview notes • The results of the internet search • A candidate summary sheet with the consultant's recommendations • A complete file of remaining candidates' application materials if requested • Review with the City - We review and discuss each candidate's application materials and interview results • Finalist Candidate Selection - the City selects those candidates to move forward for a final interview. • Final Interview Design - We help you decide on the structure of the interviews, including the panel participants and facilitators, our goal is to tailor the process to fit your needs • Coordinating Candidate Travel - We identify which candidate travel expenses your organization wishes to cover • Interview Questions - Identify any potential interview topic areas of interest from which we can develop potential interview questions FINAL INTERVIEWS Prior to the final Interviews we will: • Conduct References - We conduct professional reference checks on each candidate, requesting the names of supervisors, subordinates, and peers • Conduct Background Checks - Background checks include Education Verification, Criminal History, Driving Record, and Sex Offender Check • Facilitate Candidate Travel — Based on your guidance we coordinate the most cost-effective travel arrangements • Develop a Master Interview Schedule — We work with you to identify interview venues and then develop a master interview schedule • Develop Draft Interview Questions — Provide draft interview questions for the City's review and for each advisory panel (if used) • Provide Final Interview Materials — We will provide all final interview materials for each candidate in a file for printing by the City as well as the Master Schedule • Coordinate Final Interviews — We will work with the City to coordinate all of the details of conducting the final interviews Final Interviews Facilitate the Final Interviews - We are on site to facilitate the final interview process Facilitate Panel Debrief - After interviews are complete we facilitate a debrief with all advisory panels on each candidate's strengths and areas needing support Candidate Evaluation - We facilitate the City's evaluation of the candidates and potential consensus on a preferred candidate including any additional candidate referencing or research Candidate Selection & Appointment - Once the City has identified a preferred candidate • If asked we facilitate and identify potential contract elements • We assist with the job offer and contract negotiations leading to an employment agreement • Notify all of the unsuccessful finalists • Celebrate the Selection of your new City Manager! ? GMP 41�CONsuL,rANr3 P a g e 1 6 KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES City of Belgrade, MT Neil Cardwell, City Manager ncardwelI@cityofbelgrade.net 406-388-3760 City Manager (2) Assistant City Manager City of Livingston, MT Melissa Nootz —Commissioner mnootz@livingstonmontana.org 406 563 5722 City Manager RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE EXAMPLE Recruitments take approximately 90 days to complete. Gunnison County, CO Matthew Birnie, County Manager MBirnie@gunnisoncounty.org 970-641-3061 County Manager Four additional department directors searches Kickoff Meeting Week 1 City & GMP: Meet to discuss timeline & search process Profile Development Week 1-2 GMP: Meet with key stakeholders & create position profile Advertising Week 3-7 GMP: Post online ads; send direct mailing First Review Week 8-9 GMP: Conduct preliminary interviews with most promising candidates Work Session Week 10 City & GMP: Meet to review semifinalists and choose finalist candidates Final Interview Preparation Week 11-12 GMP: Conduct background & reference checks, complete final interviews schedule, coordinate travel with candidates Final Interviews Week 12 City: Hosts finalist interviews City: Makes hiring selection PROFESSIONAL FEES The fee for conducting an Executive Director search is $19,500. Professional fees cover all consultant and staff time required to conduct the recruitment. Expenses are additional. Professional fees are billed in three equal installments: at the beginning, halfway, and upon completion of the final interviews. If needed, re -advertising the position can be completed for a $750 administrative fee plus expenses. the City will be responsible for reimbursing expenses incurred on the City's behalf. All expenses are submitted at actual cost with no mark up. Expenses include: • Websites, job boards and other advertising (approx. $1,800 - 2,200) • Direct mail announcements (approx. $1,700 - 2,000) • Consultant travel: Mileage at IRS rate and $82.50 per hour • Background checks (approx. $225 per candidate) The City has the right to cancel the search at any time, the only responsibility would be the fees and expenses incurred prior to cancellation. Any additional work requested beyond services provide in the scope of work is billed ? GMP 41�CONsuL,rANr3 P a g e 1 7 KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal at $170 per hour. If a candidate is not selected and a second recruitment is needed, additional expenses may be applicable. GUARANTEE & WARRANTY If a candidate is not selected, we will repeat the recruitment for the cost of expenses as needed until a candidate is selected. Should the selected candidate leave the employment of the City within the first 18 months of appointment, we will conduct an additional recruitment for the cost of expenses only, if requested to do so within six months of the employee's departure. If the major elements of the process are followed and a candidate is not chosen, we will repeat the recruitment once with no additional professional fee, the only cost to you would be the expenses. MONTANA CITY IVIANAGEMENT SEARCHES CONDUCTED OR MANAGED BY GMP CONSULTANTS City of Belgrade, MT City Manager (2) Assistant City Manager Human Resource Director Information Technology Director Library Director Parks & Recreation Director City Engineer City of Livingston, MT City Manager City of Poison, MT City Manager City of Whitefish, MT City Manager Town of West Yellowstone, MT Town Manager (2) City of Kalispell, MT Fire Chief (2) City of Billings, MT Information Technology Director 911 Manager City of Red Lodge, MT Community Development Director Police Chief City of Bozeman, MT Building Official Human Resources Director Community Development Director Parks & Recreation Director Flathead County, MT Health Officer Central Valley Fire District, MT Fire Chief (2) CITY/COUNTY CAO SEARCHES CONDUCTED OR MANAGED BY GMP CONSULTANTS City & Borough of Sitka, AK City of Arlington, WA Municipal Administrator City Administrator City & Borough of City of Bainbridge Island, Wrangell, AK WA Borough Manager City Administrator City & County of City of Bandon, OR Broomfield, CO City Manager Deputy City and County Manager City of Astoria, OR (2) City Manager City of Battle Ground, WA City Manager (2) City of Bingen, WA City Administrator City of Bothell, WA Deputy City Manager Assistant City Manager City of Brainerd, MN City Administrator City of Burns, OR City Manager City of Canby, OR City Administrator City of Carnation, WA City Manager (2) City of Casper, WY City Manager City of Chehalis, WA City Manager (2) City of Chelan, WA City Administrator (3) City of Clyde Hill, WA City Administrator City of Coburg, OR City Administrator ? GMP 18 41�CONSUL,rANI'S (M of '-....--d"''' 0 KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal City of College Place, WA City Administrator City of Colorado Springs, CO Assistant City Manager City of Connell, WA City Administrator (2) City of Coquille, OR City Manager City of Cottage Grove, OR City Manager City of Covington, WA City Manager City of Damascus, OR City Manager City of Drain, OR City Administrator City of DuPont, WA City Administrator City of Duvall, WA City Administrator City of Edgewood, WA City Manager (2) City of Ellensburg, WA City Manager City of Emeryville, CA City Manager City of Fife, WA City Manager City of Fircrest, WA City Manager (2) Town of Friday Harbor City Administrator City of Gig Harbor, WA City Administrator City of Gillette, WY City Administrator City of Gladstone, OR City Administrator City of Hailey, ID City Administrator City of Hermiston, OR City Manager City of Hood River, OR City Manager City of Issaquah, WA City Administrator Deputy City Administrator City of John Day, OR City Manager City of Kelso, WA City Manager City of Kenmore, WA City Manager (2) City of Ketchum, ID City Administrator City of Lacey, WA City Manager (2) City of Lake Forest Park, WA City Administrator (3) City of Lake Oswego, OR City Manager City of Lake Stevens, WA City Administrator City of Lakewood, WA City Manager Assistant City Manager City of Leavenworth, WA City Administrator (2) City of Lebanon, OR City Manager City of Lewiston, ID City Manager City of Lincoln City, OR City Manager City of Longview, WA City Manager City of Louisville, CO City Manager City of Lynden, WA City Administrator City of McMinnville, OR City Manager City of Mill Creek, WA City Manager City of Milwaukie, OR City Manager City of Newcastle, WA City Manager (2) City of Minot, ND City Manager City of McMinnville, OR City Manager City of Monroe, WA City Administrator City of Moses Lake, WA City of Sheridan, WY City Manager (2) City Administrator City of Mountlake Terrace, City of Shoreline, WA WA City Manager (2) City Manager (2) Deputy City Manager City of Mt. Angel, OR City of South Lake Tahoe, City Manager CA City of Mukilteo, WA City Manager City Administrator City of Spearfish, SD Management Services City Administrator Director City of Spokane Valley, WA City of Newcastle, WA City Manager City Manager (2) Deputy City Manager City of Normandy Park, WA City of Stanwood, WA City Manager City Administrator City of Oak Park Heights, City of Stevenson, WA MN City Administrator City Administrator City of Sultan, WA City of Ontario, OR City Administrator City Manager City of Sun Valley, ID City of Othello, WA City Administrator City Administrator City of Sunnyside, WA City of Pasco, WA City Manager City Manager (2) City of Thorne Bay, AK Deputy City Manager City Administrator City of Port Angeles, WA City of Toledo, OR City Manager City Manager City of Post Falls, ID City of Troutdale, OR City Administrator City Manager City of Prosser, WA City of Tumwater City Administrator City Administrator City of Puyallup, WA City of Umatilla, OR City Manager City Manager City of Rawlins, WY City of Vancouver, WA City Manager Assistant City Manager City of Renton, WA City of Waldport, OR Chief Administrative Officer City Manager City of Ridgefield, WA City of Walla Walla, WA City Manager City Manager City of Riverton, WY City of West Linn, OR City Administrator City Manager City of Sammamish, WA City of White Salmon, WA City Manager (2) City Administrator City of Scappoose, OR City of Wood Village, OR City Manager City Manager City of Shelton, WA City of Woodburn, OR City Administrator City Administrator ? GMP 41�CONSUL'IANI'S 19 KALISPELL City Manager Recruitment Proposal City of Woodinville, WA City Manager City of Woodland, WA City Administrator City of Yachats, OR City Manager City of Yakima, WA City Manager Assistant City Manager City of Yelm, WA City Administrator Blaine County, ID County Administrator Clackamas County, OR County Administrator Clatsop County, OR County Manager (2) County of Los Alamos, NM County Administrator Curry County, OR County Administrator Deschutes County, OR Fair & Expo Director County Administrator Eagle County, CO County Manager Franklin County, WA County Administrator Gunnison County, CO County Manager Assistant County Manager Hood River County, OR County Administrator Island County, WA County Administrator Inyo County, CA Assistant/Deputy County Administrator County Administrative Officer Jefferson County, WA Central Services Director Lane County, OR County Administrator Lewis County, WA County Manager Mason County, WA County Administrator Mono County, CA County Administrative Officer Assistant County WORK SAMPLES: POSITION PROFILE AND INVITATION TO APPLY LETTER Administrative Officer San Juan County, WA County Manager Snohomish County, WA Executive Director (2) Summit County, UT County Manager Thurston County, WA Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Town of Friday Harbor, WA Town Administrator (Attached). Additional samples available at gmphr.com. Copyright © 2025 by GMP Consultants. All rights reserved. ? GMP Page 110 -CONSULTANTS 5 ! J � r i r .�{{,,,. '��• Ail_ .� � I r �f .. � i 1� may; • ���"'+++ Sir r4• *Ski �19Y ¢_ Y r Sf-�{ �: .. :hI JL - .. •f : _Mri�ur Yl f�2',�"S'I: - ._ -J, �a.?' M .$ s .:hs� TMi.�L�.wi m�e WHY APPLY? This is an exciting opportunity to lead a well -established Fire Department poised for growth and expansion. With funding secured, the City and Department are prepared to build and staff another fire station. The Fire Department is seeking a strong, forward -thinking leader capable of driving big -picture strategies and initiatives. The new Fire Chief will have the chance to immediately contribute to a strategic direction and long-term vision already embraced by the organization. Success in this role requires the ability to build strong relationships and unite all stakeholders around a common purpose. If you have the experience, passion, and determination to make a lasting impact, this may be the opportunity for you. ,.G11MP ��CON SUf I AN'l S AC* �A Y,s k" ...ram •�.�-+� r 1181 11SIM Kalispell is a dynamic community of 28,500 tucked among the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in beautiful northwest Montana. As the county seat of Flathead County, Kalispell serves as the regional hub for approximately 140,000 people. This region is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and wealth of year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. Due to its exceptional quality of life, Kalispell continues to grow its population at an average rate of 2% each year. Residents and visitors enjoy easy access to several national and state forests and parks, downhill skiing and snowboarding at nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West —Flathead Lake. Watersports are popular as this region has more lakes than anywhere else in Montana. The famous Glacier National Park is just 52 miles to the north offering towering peaks, alpine lakes and meadows, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. In 2025, the park played host to 2.9 million visitors. Kalispell is a small and innovative town enjoying a vigorous tourism economy balanced by education, government, health services, forest products, manufacturing, engineering, and retail. The historical downtown features charming 100-year old storefronts that house eclectic eateries, outfitters and western wear, colorful boutiques and art galleries, and local craft breweries. In 2017, Kalispell was voted Montana's most attractive city by Expedia's View Finder. The City maintains 419 acres of parkland and natural open space including over 28 parks that include pavilions, gardens, & green spaces for hosting group events. Kalispell is also home to Glacier Park International Airport offering commercial flights to major cities across the U.S. THE CITY OF KALISPELL IN r THE FIRE DEPARTMENT Incorporated in 1892, Kalispell is a full -service city serving 28,500 residents across 14 square miles in Flathead County. The City operates under a Council -Manager form of government with eight city councilors and a Mayor. Two councilors are elected from each of the City's four wards and the Mayor is elected at large. Each member serves a four-year term of office. The City Council appoints the City Manager to carry out the governing policies and ordinances established by the council, and to oversee the day-to- day operations of the city. The City operates with a 2025 budget of $180 million and a team of 244 FTEs. FTEs 244 2025 BUDGET: AREA 14 square $180 million = miles POPULATION ; 28,500 Formed in 1892, the Kalispell Fire Department is an all -hazard Fire and EMS department serving the City of Kalispell with a 2025 budget of $8.5 million and a staffing of 47.4 FTEs (with an additional 15 authorized when the next station is constructed). In 2025, the Department responded to 4,509 calls for service, of which 5,099 were medical calls. Operating out of two stations, current authorized staffing consists of 44 responders working on a 24 on/48 off schedule. The Department has proudly provided EMS to the local community since 1952 and currently provides Advanced Life Support and ambulance transport services with Firefighter/Paramedics. As a Montana Class 1 city with a population greater than 10,000, Kalispell is required by state law to have a fully career fire department, and the use of on call or volunteer personnel is not permitted. In the November 2024 election, Kalispell voters approved a $4.6 million public safety levy to help support a population growth rate of 19% since 2018 and a 25.5% increase in calls for service. Following the levy passage, 11 responders have been hired and are currently in the Fire Academy. Additional staffing and a third fire station will be added in the next couple of years. go kak.*.. r a TS THE FIRE CHIEF KALIS� -= PUBLIC SAFETY Reporting to the City Manager, the Fire Chief performs a variety of technical, administrative, and supervisory work in planning, organizing, directing, and implementing actions addressing fire and life safety risk reduction, and Fire Department operations. The Fire Chief simultaneously holds the title of Fire Marshal. At the current time, the Fire Chief performs plan review, code compliance, and fire investigations. THE IDEAL CANDIDATE • Works as a team member of the City, developing trust and strong relationships to collaboratively solve Citywide/organizational concerns. • A working Fire Chief who will lead and push from the front. • Has come through the ranks, understands the needs in the field, and can coach and mentor. • Effectively delegates by communicating a clear vision and expectations with accountability. Is careful to empower individuals and not micromanage. • A leader who is a progressive thinker and has the vision to take the Department to the next level. • Has strong labor experience and can build an ongoing collaborative relationship with the workforce. • Has exceptional situational awareness, pays attention, remains calm under pressure, and will make the best decision quickly. • Develops and maintains relationships with surrounding communities and external partners. • A strong, consistent leader who inspires employees and sets expectations. • Advocates for the Department's mission, vision, and values and will communicate and exemplify them in practical day-to-day applications. OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES Inspire a Strong Organizational Culture Amid attrition, retirements, and a near doubling of the workforce, the Department has a unique opportunity to redefine its culture and unite as one cohesive team. This new culture will be shaped by a visionary, inclusive leader who can align the organization around shared goals and values. By fostering an environment of collaboration, strengthening trust, and empowering every member, the Department can thrive. Design an Organizational Structure The ideal candidate will also have the opportunity to design an organizational structure that ensures the right people are in the right roles. With the addition of two administrative officers and the creation of a new Battalion Chief's office, the groundwork for success is already in place. Build a Robust Training Division The Department is at a pivotal moment, with new opportunities to develop a training division capable of meeting the needs of its growing workforce. Over the next three years, the Department will hire over 30 new employees. To keep pace with this expansion, there is a significant need to develop current and future officers to lead effectively in a modern, evolving environment. A focus on training and leadership development will be critical to preparing a young, dynamic workforce for long-term success. Succession Planning To ensure organizational vitality and prepare future leaders, professional development must begin early in an employee's career. Establishing clear professional pathways through formal mentorship programs, succession management initiatives, and educational/training support will inspire employees to pursue growth opportunities within the organization. A key component of this planning is capturing institutional knowledge and proactively preparing for attrition and upcoming retirements. By fostering a culture of learning and leadership development, the Department can ensure a seamless transition of expertise and maintain operational excellence for years to come. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS The City of Kalispell is offering an annual salary range of $125,447 to $160,584 for this position, dependent upon experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive package. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree in fire science, public administration, or a closely related field and 15 years of experience in fire and emergency medical service work, 5 years of which must have been equivalent to fire chief, captain, or battalion chief. Or any satisfactory combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the job. PREFERRED: Completion of the on -campus Command and Control Class series at the National Fire Academy, or the Blue Card Command Program. RESOURCES Fire Department 2024-2025 City Budget CPSM - 2025 Kalispell Fire & EMS Analysis Report Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Discover Kalispell Video: Kalispell, Montana CI I � ol KALISPELL 0 0 rr, )I I M Livingston, MT Dear Colleague, GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Livingston, Montana in finding a City Manager. Perhaps this is the right time in your career to consider this exciting opportunity. If not, would you please pass this on to other chief administrative officers who may be interested? Thank you for your consideration and assistance. GregM. Prothman, GMP Consultants GMP �� 206-714-9499 CONSULTANTS r a + NG I � ORK !L I '� • � 3.�� + c - � :_ �. i 'iMi� to IF: - „a_ I a _ e r — Y F � e ^ irr11r1- � L Why Apply? Come work with an experienced and dynamic leadership team, a highly engaged citizenry, and a committed City Commission —all under the scenic backdrop of the Yellowstone River and multiple mountain ranges. Only 30 miles outside of Bozeman, this rocky -mountain community is large enough to be a full - service city, but small enough to be a close-knit community. People who live in Livingston are proud to call it home. The City of Livingston Located 30 miles outside of Bozeman and one hour north of Yellowstone National Park, the City of Livingston is known for for its rugged charm and a strong sense of community. Livingston has maintained its quintessential Old West ambience and has flourished into an eclectic and engaged community that includes ranchers, writers, artisans, and performers. In 1999, Livingston famously served as the setting for the Brad Pitt movie, "A River Runs Through It." Operating under the Commission -Manager form of government, the City serves a population of over 8,000 with a budget of $25.9 million dollars and a team of 100 FTEs. City departments include Building and Planning, Legal, Finance, Administrative Services, Fire & EMS, Police, and Public Works. The Ideal Candidate The City of Livingston is seeking an energetic and engaged City Manager. The ideal candidate will be a strong and compassionate leader with the ability to take broad policy direction and implement it through executive strategy and empowering staff to achieve clear and actionable goals. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic organization and live in an area with a high quality of life. "We have a dynamic team of department heads that work cooperatively and challenge each other like the best kind of teammates." "While there is no shortage of challenges... the entire staff of the City of Livingston at every level is committed to doing an exemplary job and serving our neighbors while taking care of each other every day." —CITY DIRECTORS & DEPARTMENT HEADS