CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- Cass County Finance Director Jennifer Rentfrow has been acting as the interim County Administrator since Matthew Newton resigned the position last December, but now the county is looking for someone to fill the role long term.

"In January, the Board of Commissioners authorized the creation of an ad hoc committee to begin facilitating the search," a county spokesperson said.

"That committee consists of Board Chair Jeremiah Jones and senior commissioner Roseann Marchetti, Human Resources/Payroll Director Beth Daly, Chief Judge Carol Bealor (representing the County’s co-employers/elected officials), and IT Director Jodi Nestich (representing the County’s department heads)."

The role of the County Administrator in Cass is to serve as the county’s Chief Administrative Officer, "operating pursuant to Public Act 2 of 1968 and reporting to the County’s Board of Commissioners." 

County officials say to be considered, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) in public administration, business, finance, or a related field, five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in county government with responsibilities in budgeting, personnel and administrative functions, a valid driver’s license, and ability to travel as needed.

Applicants should also have:

• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Knowledge of Michigan county government operations, municipal finance, labor laws, and public policy
• Ability to work effectively with elected officials, employees, businesses, and the public
• Skilled in financial management, labor relations, and contract negotiations.
• Excellent communication and consensus-building abilities

Interested applicants need to submit a letter of interest, resume, completed county application, and any additional materials for consideration via email to [email protected].