David Cameron Named Springfield City Manager

David Cameron selected as Springfield, Missouri City Manager

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

David Cameron has been selected as Springfield’s 14th City Manager, pending a public City Council vote later this month. Cameron has served as City Administrator for the City of Republic since July 2016. He is a native of Miller, Missouri, having returned to the area after spending 16 years with the City of Siloam Springs, Arkansas where he served in the same capacity. He earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational management from John Brown University in Siloam Springs.

Cameron has devoted his career to local government, addressing process improvements, bridging relationships between government and the development community, infrastructure deployment, economic development, and environmental compliance. Under his leadership, Republic has delivered $1.4 billion in capital investments, created 3,000 new jobs and led the development of significant projects. Notable projects include the development of the Garton Business Park and the establishment of an Amazon Fulfillment Center. While in Siloam Springs, he successfully negotiated the sale of a city-owned hospital, resulting in a $10.6 million benefit to the community.

“With over 30 years in local government, David has demonstrated a consistent ability to lead and manage city operations effectively and is the right person for our community at a time when Springfield is on the rise,” said Mayor Jeff Schrag. “We are excited to have him join our leadership team and help us build on the foundation of this great city – the Springfield we have always imagined.”

Cameron is known for his “disruptive leadership” style, focusing on reducing bureaucracy and enhancing service delivery. He has implemented systems that streamline processes, leading to faster turnaround times for city permits and fostering a culture of innovation within city departments.

"I am very excited and honored to join the City of Springfield as its next City Manager. As a 417 Kid from Miller, Missouri, the opportunity to continue serving the region I’ve always loved is truly special. While I will deeply miss the Republic staff and community, where we’ve accomplished and transformed so much over the past nine years, I’m grateful for all we’ve built. I’m now excited to contribute to the growth and success of the place I’ve always called home in a new way. Springfield plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of southwest Missouri. I’m energized by the opportunity to work alongside Mayor Schrag, the City Council, and the City staff to lead with vision, courage and collaboration. Let’s go!"

Cameron attends Second Baptist Church and loves the outdoors and all things Ozarks. He has three adult children, all of whom work in health care, and is a proud grandfather. He currently has one granddaughter and is eagerly anticipating the arrival of his second granddaughter in June.

City Council will take a formal vote on an employment contract for Cameron during an upcoming regular council meeting. First reading of that bill will take place Monday, May 19, with the vote expected May 27.

Cameron takes the helm July 7 and will be paid a salary of $350,000.

About the Hiring Process

Springfield City Council conducted a comprehensive process to select the new City Manager, emphasizing transparency and community involvement. This process included several key stages:

1. Community Engagement: The City sought input from residents, business leaders and other stakeholders to identify the qualities and priorities desired in a new City Manager.
2. Recruitment: City Council hired a recruitment firm to conduct a nationwide search for qualified candidates. The job was advertised through various channels to attract a diverse pool of applicants.
3. Screening and Interviews: Applications were reviewed, and a short list of candidates was selected. These candidates underwent interviews, which included assessments of their experience, leadership style and vision for the city.
4. Public Involvement: Finalists participated in a variety of public meet-and-greet sessions, allowing residents to engage with them directly and provide feedback to the selection committee.
5. Selection and Appointment: Based on the interviews and community input, the City Council selected a candidate to serve as City Manager.

This structured approach was undertaken to ensure that the selection process is inclusive and aligns with the City’s goals and the community’s expectations.