THE ROLES
​The Detroit City Appointments Project (DCAP) is a collaborative effort to scout, vet, and recommend effective and diverse candidates for leadership roles in Detroit city government—individuals committed to the public good. DCAP is casting a wide net to identify talent that can be a valuable asset in advancing a more just, responsive, and effective government. The goal is to surface candidates who are not only representative of Detroit and committed to good governance but who also have the qualifications and readiness to lead from day one. ​
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All Positions Require:
While each position featured in the Cabinet Lookbook has distinct responsibilities, all roles call for leaders who:
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Have a demonstrated track record of advancing the common good
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Show a strong commitment to equity, transparency, and community-driven decision-making
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Bring proven leadership in managing teams and aligning staff around shared goals, systems, or citywide initiatives
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Have experience working across sectors, departments, and/or with community stakeholders
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Understand Detroit’s unique history, assets, and challenges—and are committed to inclusive, place-based solutions
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Prioritize the needs and voices of Detroiters and neighborhoods over corporate interests
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Value data-informed strategies while centering resident voices in planning and implementation
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Uphold integrity, accountability, and public trust in their leadership
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Can navigate complex systems and drive ambitious, justice-centered outcomes
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Amplify the voices of historically underrepresented and disenfranchised Detroiters
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Are committed to serving a full term—not viewing the role as a short-term resume boost
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Reflect and value the city’s diversity in race, gender, sexual orientation, life experience, education, disability status, military service, or citizenship
Most Positions Will Also Require:
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Residency in the City of Detroit within a specified timeframe after appointment
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Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed
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Possession of a valid driver’s license
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Criminal background checks for certain roles, depending on the position requirements
01
Urban Planning, Development & Revitalization
These roles collectively shape Detroit’s vision for equitable growth and vibrant communities. Leaders in these positions influence the city’s physical and economic landscape through strategic planning, housing development, neighborhood investment, and inclusive economic strategies. Ideal candidates bring visionary thinking, technical expertise, and a strong commitment to justice-centered development and cross-sector collaboration.
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Director of Planning and Development
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Director of the Department of Neighborhoods
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Director of Economic Development
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Director of Construction and Demolition
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Director of the Housing and Revitalization Department
02
Infrastructure & Operations
These essential leadership roles ensure the reliable, efficient, and equitable delivery of core city services. Together, these leaders oversee the planning, maintenance, and innovation of Detroit’s physical infrastructure, public spaces, and transportation systems. Candidates should demonstrate strong management capabilities, systems thinking, and a commitment to sustainability and responsiveness to community needs.
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Director of Public Works
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Director of the General Services Department
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Director of the Detroit Department of Transportation
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Director of the Water and Sewerage Department
03
Financial Strategy & Fiscal Management
These positions are responsible for safeguarding Detroit’s financial health and aligning fiscal strategies with the city’s values and priorities. Leaders will oversee budgeting, revenue forecasting, property assessments, and long-term financial planning, with a focus on equity, transparency, and public accountability. Success in these roles requires deep financial expertise, strategic vision, and a commitment to community-centered fiscal stewardship.
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Chief Financial Officer
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Budget Director
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Chief Assessor
04
Health, Equity, & Community Wellbeing
Focused on justice, inclusion, and public health, these leaders shape policies and programs that improve quality of life for all Detroiters. These roles operate at the intersection of advocacy, service delivery, and community empowerment, addressing systemic inequities and ensuring that initiatives are inclusive, responsive, and rooted in the lived experiences of residents. Ideal candidates bring a strong equity lens, cultural competency, and a demonstrated ability to engage meaningfully with community members—especially Detroit’s most vulnerable populations.
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Director of Civil Rights, Inclusion, and Opportunity
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Director of the Detroit Health Department
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Director of the Department of Neighborhoods
ADDITIONAL ROLES
Detroit's mayor can appoint leaders for the following roles. We are collecting candidates who may be interested and qualified. At this time, we are not offering interviews as part of this process, but we may reach out to ask some screening questions to qualified candidates.
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Director of the Department of Neighborhoods
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Economic Development Director
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Director of Planning + Development
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Director of Public Works
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Director of General Services Department
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Director of Construction and Demolition
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Director of Water and Sewerage Department
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Chief Assessor
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Budget Director
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Director of Civil Rights, Inclusion, and Opportunity
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Director of the Detroit Department of Transportation
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Director of the Detroit Health Department
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Director of the Housing and Revitalization Department (HRD)​
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Chief Financial Officer