The City Manager is the chief administrative officer of the city and is accountable to the City Council.

The City Manager is the chief advisor to the City Council on policy issues concerning the community and activities of the departments under his supervision. The City Manager is responsible for submission of the City budget and Capital Improvement Plan and responsible for its administration after Council adoption. The Manager keeps the Council advised of the City’s financial condition, and the anticipated needs of the City.

The City Manager's Office is responsible for a wide variety of activities including general administration, Human Resources and the City's Volunteer Program, Intergovernmental Relations and Public Information. The City's Redevelopment and Economic Development programs, as well as the City Clerk’s Office, are part of the City Manager’s Office.

Under Campbell’s form of government, the City Council appoints the City Manager and the City Attorney. The City Manager then appoints the department heads and all other staff. He is responsible for assuring that the City’s services are performed well, in accordance with Council’s policies and within the limits of the City’s resources.