Loveland Launches Search for New City Manager
Business operators in the city should track the upcoming leadership change for shifts in municipal administrative priorities.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in People
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The City of Loveland has launched a nationwide search for a new city manager following the retirement of James Thompson. The executive search process is currently underway to identify a permanent leader for the municipal organization.
Why it matters
Selecting a new city manager determines the administrative direction and operational priorities for the Loveland municipal government. This transition impacts how the city executes policy and manages ongoing department workflows.
The City of Loveland is seeking a replacement for former manager James Thompson, who retired on July 7, 2026. Interested candidates must submit their applications by the November 29 deadline.
The players
Brian Waldes
The acting city manager who previously served as the city's chief financial officer.
SGR
An executive recruitment firm specializing in placing leadership for public sector organizations.
James Thompson
The former city manager who retired from the organization on July 7.
The details
Loveland is collaborating with executive recruitment firm SGR to manage the national search. Acting city manager Brian Waldes, who previously served as the city's chief financial officer, currently oversees organizational operations. The city intends to host public meet-and-greet sessions once finalists are selected to facilitate community input.
Timeline
May 2026: Brian Waldes is appointed as acting city manager.
July 7, 2026: James Thompson retires as city manager.
October 29, 2026: The city publishes recruitment materials for the position.
November 29, 2026: Application deadline for the city manager position.
Market Landscape
This recruitment drive marks the final step in the transition process initiated by the departure of James Thompson. It follows a pattern of interim leadership stability led by Brian Waldes since May 2026.
Operators in Loveland should monitor the upcoming selection of the city manager as it will shift the municipal priorities for local projects and procurement. Business owners should prepare for potential changes in administrative engagement policies once the new executive is appointed.
The takeaway
The search for a new manager highlights the shift toward permanent leadership following a period of interim administration. Business owners can track the city's direction by monitoring the public meet-and-greet sessions expected after the November 29 deadline.
What happens next
The city will hold public meet-and-greet sessions for finalist candidates following the November 29 application deadline.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts in the People section.
More information
Submit applications or view search details on the city manager position application portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by BizWest.
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