Wanted: A visionary who has grown a community socially and economically. Knowledge of local government, the region and state law required. Capacity to take organization to the next level a must. Applicant has to have a minimum of 10 years of experience in a midsized city showing progressive increases in responsibility. Must demonstrate best-practices experience and success in customer service. Masters degree in public administration or related field preferred. “Yes” men or women need not apply.

Those qualities are what Cary’s Town Council outlined Friday in the first work session devoted to finding a successor to retiring Town Manager Bill Coleman. Coleman announced his retirement earlier this month. His last day is set for Oct. 17.

Valiria Willis, the town’s director of human resources and facilitator for the session, told the council its task was to develop “a profile of what you would look for in the next manager.”

Each of the council members was asked to list two qualities desired in the manager. That was followed by discussion to clarify what was meant by those qualities and finally a ranking of the most important qualities.

As the discussion continued, the qualities evolved. Jennifer Robinson suggested the successful candidate have knowledge of various levels of government.

Gale Adcock added on to that a minimum level of experience combined with a demonstration of broadened responsibilities.

Jack Smith said he wanted someone who can “take the concept of serving our citizens to a higher level.”

Don Frantz said he wanted someone who would stand up to the council and “a fiscal hawk but not a bean counter.”

Julie Robison said her choice would be a “visionary” who “has grown a community socially, economically and physically.”

Erv Portman’s ideal applicant would have, among other things, “exceptional 360 references.”

In other words, the applicant would get glowing reviews from his or her council, employees, community and other stakeholders, Portman said.

The council has yet to decide if it will use a search to find its next manager.

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht said he expects the council will discuss the matter at Thursday’s council meeting, probably in a closed session as specific potential candidates could be discussed.