Why aren’t more women holding the top leadership role in local government?

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League, to talk about his bold idea—the 16/50 Project—created to shift the statistics and change the trajectory for women in municipal leadership.

We explore what it really takes to become a City Manager, the mindset required to lead at that level, and why both tactical skills and executive presence matter more than ever. Dan also shares his leadership philosophy and why this work is so personal—and so necessary.

🎙️ In this conversation, we cover:

• The origin and impact of the 16/50 Project

• The evolving role—and pressure—of the modern City Manager

• The leadership gap between the #2 and #1 positions

• Dan’s take on what effective leadership looks like in today’s world

• How Michigan communities are changing as more women lead

If you're passionate about leadership, equity, and the future of local government—this episode will leave you inspired.

DAN GILMARTIN BIO:

Dan became the League’s seventh executive director in 2005 and its youngest leader in the organization’s long history. Through his work with communities, Dan is recognized as anational leader in urban policy and revitalization. He holds leadership roles with the National League of Cities and the international Placemaking Council. Dan is a co-author of two books on the economic importance of place and isfrequently quoted in state and national publications. Dan received the Diamond Award from is association peers in Michigan for his work as a strategic leader, and under his direction, the League is designated as a Top Workplace by theDetroit Free Press and as Most Effective Lobbying Organization in the state by a MIRS/WPIC-MRA Insider Survey. Dan is a lifelong Michigander and a Detroitnative (and booster), and currently resides in the historic downtown of Northville, Michigan, with his wife, Lori, and two sons.