Village Administrator

About the Position

The Village of Sister Bay (population 1,200 year-round and several thousand in the summer) seeks a skilled and dynamic professional to serve as its next Village Administrator. As Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the Village Administrator is responsible for day-to-day operations and policy implementation. This position reports to a seven-member Village Board, and provides leadership to staff, manages municipal services, and ensures the effective and efficient delivery of high-quality programs to the community. The Administrator manages department supervisors and provides leadership to all full-time and part-time employees, and serves as the Zoning Administrator and Human Resources Manager.

About the Community

Located on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan in northern Door County, the Village of Sister Bay is a close-knit, energetic community offering a blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and world-class amenities.

The Village is celebrated for its pristine waterfront, bustling marina, and revitalized downtown filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Sister Bay Beach—the largest public waterfront in Door County—provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, while the marina offers direct access to Lake Michigan. Nearby parks, orchards, and scenic trails invite hiking, biking, and winter recreation, making outdoor activity a way of life year-round.

Sister Bay’s local economy thrives on tourism, hospitality, retail, and small business, with a growing base of professional services and entrepreneurs drawn by its high quality of life. Signature events such as Fall Fest and Marina Fest bring thousands of visitors annually and reinforce the Village’s strong sense of community.

Residents enjoy a safe and welcoming environment with housing options ranging from historic cottages and lakefront homes to modern condominiums and new neighborhoods. Gibraltar Area Schools serve the community with excellent academic and extracurricular programs, while healthcare providers, a community library, Northeast Technical College Campus, and active civic organizations support a connected and engaged village life.

With its lakeside lifestyle, thriving economy, and proximity to other Door County villages, Sturgeon Bay, and Green Bay, Sister Bay offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, caring and supportive community with easy access to urban amenities. Known for its warm hospitality and dynamic culture, it is truly a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

Learn more at www.sisterbaywi.gov.

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be an approachable and collaborative leader with strong financial acumen, planning and zoning knowledge, and proven experience in organizational management. They will bring demonstrated expertise in municipal finance, including budget development, capital improvement planning, and long-term fiscal management, along with a solid background in human resources, organizational development, and community planning. The ideal Administrator will be a strategic thinker and effective project manager, skilled at balancing priorities, analyzing options, and guiding complex initiatives. Equally important, this individual will possess exceptional communication and relationship-building skills to engage productively with the Board, staff, residents, and community partners. While capable of making decisive choices when necessary, the next Administrator will lead with integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to teamwork—ensuring that Sister Bay continues to thrive as a safe, welcoming, and well-managed community.

Salary Range: $125,000 - $141,000 (DOQ)

Excellent benefits package includes:

  • Exceptional insurance, benefits, and time-off program. 

  • Enrollment in Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, or public policy preferred; Bachelor’s degree is required.

  • Minimum of three years of experience in public sector management.

  • ICMA Credentialed Manager certification (or ability to obtain) is preferred.

  • Valid Wisconsin Driver’s License.

Learn more:

Apply now!

Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position.

Applications are now being accepted until filled with first review no later than October 24, 2025.

Please upload or email your cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com.

Please direct questions to Jay at 262-355-6102.

Thank you for your interest!