Mike Futrell (Photo – City of Pasadena)
The Pasadena City Council has announced the appointment of Mike Futrell as the city’s next City Manager, with an anticipated start date of Wednesday, May 13. The decision follows a comprehensive national search aimed at identifying an experienced and forward-thinking leader to guide the city’s future.
By News Desk
Mike Futrell brings more than three decades of public-sector experience, including 18 years in top executive roles in municipal government. He currently serves as City Manager of Riverside and has previously held key leadership positions such as City Manager of South San Francisco and Chief Administrative Officer for the City and County of Baton Rouge. His career also includes service in the United States Senate as a State Director, executive leadership in the private sector, and elected roles in Louisiana. In addition, Futrell is a retired U.S. Navy Captain, having completed 26 years of active and reserve service.
Over the course of his career, Futrell has managed large-scale municipal operations and spearheaded major capital projects and public-private partnerships. His experience spans oversight of utilities, airports, convention centers, and full-service city departments, as well as leadership in economic development, regulatory functions, and intergovernmental relations.
During his tenure in South San Francisco, Futrell played a central role in transforming the city into a leading biotechnology hub, helping secure funding for housing, transit, and sustainability efforts. He also led a major $3 billion waterfront restoration initiative. In Riverside, he has overseen economic growth in sectors such as green technology, aerospace, and life sciences, while advancing major infrastructure projects and strengthening community engagement.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo praised both the outgoing and incoming city managers in a statement released Wednesday. He expressed gratitude to outgoing City Manager Miguel Márquez for his service, noting his leadership during a period of significant challenges and opportunities for the city.
Gordo also highlighted the strength of the candidate pool before welcoming Futrell and his wife, Susan Freeman, to Pasadena. He described Futrell as a seasoned and collaborative leader equipped to address complex issues and support city staff in delivering services to residents.
Futrell said he is honored by the appointment and looks forward to serving the Pasadena community. He emphasized his lifelong commitment to public service and expressed enthusiasm about working with city leaders, staff, and residents to advance shared priorities.
Among his initial focus areas will be major initiatives including the Reconnecting Pasadena 710 Vision Plan, recovery efforts related to the Eaton Fire, the city’s transition to carbon-free electricity by 2030, and maintaining long-term financial sustainability. He also underscored the importance of community engagement, public safety, and organizational excellence.
Futrell is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of California, Merced, and holds advanced degrees in law and business, along with additional training in corporate innovation from Stanford University.
Outside of his professional work, Futrell is active in community service and enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife plan to become active members of the Pasadena community following his appointment.
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