City Commission approves City Manager contract
Sarasota, FL: The City Commission unanimously approved an employment contract Monday with Karie Friling to serve as City Manager.
Friling will begin her duties Friday, May 29. She will be the first woman to hold the position of Sarasota City Manager.
“We’re all looking forward to officially welcoming Karie Friling to Sarasota,” said Mayor Debbie Trice. “After a comprehensive national search and rigorous interview process, Karie rose to the top. She’s well-rounded with extensive government experience and has an approachable, capable leadership style. We’re proud to have hired the most qualified candidate while at the same time making history at City Hall.”
Eighty candidates submitted applications during the national search. Friling was one of five finalists invited by the City Commission in February to participate in a two-day interview and public engagement process including touring Sarasota, interacting with residents during an open house and talking with City Commissioners and staff leadership. The Commission unanimously selected Friling.
“I’m honored by the Commission’s confidence and excited to serve the Sarasota community,” said incoming City Manager Karie Friling. “I believe in visible, engaged leadership – listening first, building strong relationships, and working collaboratively with commissioners, staff, local businesses, and residents. I look forward to making Sarasota my home and becoming a part of this wonderful community.”
Friling is a seasoned public sector executive with over 30 years of leadership experience serving communities of varying sizes and complexity in Illinois. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, where she leads a county-wide organization of 500 employees serving more than 950,000 residents and oversees a significant capital program focused on environmental resilience, public access and sustainability. Prior to DuPage County, Friling served as Village Manager for Homer Glen, IL. She is a credentialed manager in the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
Friling’s application materials are available on the City of Sarasota website at www.Sarasotafl.gov.
The City Commission began a national search following the retirement announcement of City Manager Marlon Brown in October 2024. Throughout the search process, three Interim City Managers -- Doug Jeffcoat, Dave Bullock and Jennifer Jorgensen -- helped to ensure leadership stability. After serving in the temporary role, Jeffcoat and Bullock retired as planned. Jorgensen will return to her duties as Governmental Affairs Director upon Friling’s arrival.
Karie Friling
Media Contact: News@sarasotafl.gov
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About the City of Sarasota: The City of Sarasota is a diverse and inclusive community located on Florida’s Suncoast with 55,000 year-round residents, internationally recognized cultural arts venues, stunning sunsets along Lido Beach, restored Donald Ross-designed municipal golf course, and Major League spring training baseball with the Baltimore Orioles. Learn more about us at www.SarasotaFL.Gov
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