If you are considering a public sector leadership role in 2025, here are three things you will want to understand before you apply, along with some practical tips for finding the answers.
At Berkeley Search Consultants (BSC), we write, review, and advise on public sector job descriptions. We often see the same challenge repeated across many postings: they explain what the job is, but not always why it matters right now. In today’s landscape, especially at the executive level within cities, counties, and special districts, top candidates are asking for more. They are looking for context, clarity, and connection.
Below are three questions we hear consistently from candidates that are rarely answered in the job description itself. Along with each, we offer a few ways to uncover the information you need to make an informed and strategic decision.
Is the team stable?
Are there large-scale initiatives underway? Has there been recent leadership turnover? You are not seeking rumors. You are looking for alignment between your leadership style and the organization’s current reality. Understanding the environment helps you prepare for the role and determine whether you are the right fit.
How to find out: Start with the organization’s official website. Review recent council agendas, budget reports, department updates, or strategic plans. External resources such as California City News, the League of California Cities, and the California Special Districts Association can also provide relevant news and context. The more informed you are, the stronger your interview responses will be.
Why is this position open right now?
Was it a retirement? A resignation? A sign of growth or restructuring? Understanding the circumstances surrounding the vacancy gives you insight into the agency’s internal dynamics and what kind of leadership they are looking for. It can also shape your view of the urgency or opportunity the role presents.
How to find out: If the job posting does not mention the reason for the opening, try searching for press releases, LinkedIn updates, or archived agency newsletters. Do not hesitate to ask thoughtful and respectful questions during the interview.
What does success look like in the first year?
Beyond daily responsibilities, what outcomes are truly expected? Will you be tasked with launching a major initiative, stabilizing a department, building community trust, or driving cultural change? Knowing what the organization hopes to achieve helps you evaluate whether you are equipped to meet those expectations and how to prepare.
How to find out: Look into the agency’s strategic goals, recent initiatives, and leadership messages. City Manager reports, budget documents, and planning updates often offer strong clues. Tailor your application and interviews to reflect the agency’s priorities. Candidates who do their homework always stand out.
When you go beyond the job description, you show more than just curiosity. You demonstrate readiness, leadership, and the ability to engage at a strategic level. In Public Sector hiring, preparation makes a real difference. The better you understand the “why now,” the more confidently you can contribute to conversations about leadership, impact, and long-term fit.