City of Olathe
Home MenuSusan Sherman
Susan E. Sherman serves as City Manager for the City of Olathe, bringing more than 35 years of executive leadership experience to one of the fastest-growing communities in the region. She has played a key role in guiding Olathe’s growth from approximately 68,000 to more than 150,000 residents, helping shape a community known for strong services, sound financial stewardship, and high quality of life.
An International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager, Susan is recognized for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to values-driven, data-informed decision-making. She has overseen a $622 million municipal budget and more than 1,200 employees, while leading major initiatives such as the Olathe 2040 Future Ready Strategic Plan, Elevate Olathe Comprehensive Plan, and multiple citywide master plans.
Susan is a strong advocate for innovation, employee engagement, and community partnerships. Her leadership has helped transform Olathe’s parks, libraries, civic spaces, and downtown, while maintaining the City’s AA+ bond rating and earning national recognition for financial excellence.
Susan holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University. She remains deeply committed to public service, mentorship, and building a community where people and ideas thrive.
Nationally and regionally, Susan has served on the ICMA Executive Board, ICMA Leadership Advisory Board, and numerous professional task forces, and she is a graduate of the University of Virginia Senior Executive Institute. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including Citizen of the Year from the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, the ICMA L.P. Cookingham Career Development Award, the Buford Watson Assistants Excellence in Leadership Award, and recognition as a SheLeadsGov Inspiring Woman in Local Government.
Susan and Fred live in Olathe, Kansas and have two grown children.
Contact Susan Sherman at OlatheConnect.
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