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City of Olathe Appoints Susan Sherman as City Manager
Sherman will begin her new role Jan. 31, 2026, following the retirement of current City Manager Michael Wilkes.
Following a comprehensive nationwide search, at the Dec. 16 Olathe City Council meeting, the Governing Body appointed Susan Sherman as the next Olathe City Manager.
Sherman will be the ninth City Manager, and first female City Manager, in Olathe’s 167-year history. She has served with distinction in the City Manager’s Office since 1989. As current Deputy City Manager, Sherman is responsible for the day-to-day operations of four focus areas in Olathe’s 2040 Strategic Plan; Economy, Exceptional Services, Infrastructure, and Quality of Life. During her tenure, she has played a key role in guiding the Olathe’s growth from approximately 68,000 residents to nearly 150,000.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving the Olathe community in this new capacity. Olathe is an extraordinary community with dedicated public servants, innovative partners, and engaged residents,” Sherman said. “I know our hardworking and passionate team’s commitment to excellence is the backbone of our success. Together, we will continue building a stronger and more vibrant community into the future.”
“We're thrilled to offer Susan the role of City Manager and look forward to a successful negotiation of a contract. For the past 36 years she's been an outstanding champion for Olathe, helping to lead this organization with integrity, vision, collaboration, and above all, a commitment to doing what's right for Olatheans,” Mayor John Bacon said. “We're confident the extension of her steady leadership will allow Olathe to grow and thrive on the exceptional foundation we've built for years to come.”