City Ombudsman
The City Auditor is looking for an independent advocate for a fair, just, and equitable City government to serve as the City Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is a person of recognized judgment and integrity who is well-equipped to analyze complex problems, challenge power structures, and advocate for solutions that safeguard people’s rights and promote higher standards of service to the public.
The Ombudsman’s Office is a division of the City Auditor’s Office, which is led by the elected Auditor and independent of the Mayor, Commissioners, and bureaus. Other divisions in the Auditor’s Office are Audit Services, Archives and Records Management, and Operations Management, which includes the City Elections Officer and Council Clerk. The Ombudsman reports directly to the Auditor, supervises two Deputy Ombudsman, and is a member of the management team.
The Ombudsman’s Office takes and investigates complaints from community members who believe City government treated them unfairly, such as when it shuts off a resident’s water or does not protect residents from the spread of toxic dust during demolition projects. The Ombudsman also seeks to resolve problems systemically, such as analyzing the City’s use of liens to enforce property maintenance violations and determining there is a disproportionate impact on communities of color and neighborhoods vulnerable to gentrification.
Successful candidates will have a mix of education and experience that demonstrates excellent investigative skills, an ability to synthesize disparate information, effectively communicate findings to complainants and City officials, and persuade decision-makers to implement recommendations for better outcomes. Top candidates will also demonstrate their ability to lead a division to achieve strategic goals, navigate sensitive investigations in a political environment, and maintain credibility as a principled and independent advocate for justice.