The City Manager is charged with preparation and administration of the City and Urban Renewal Agency (URA) annual budgets, and Urban Renewal plans. The City Manager is responsible for general oversight of the management team, including specific oversight of the Finance Department, Library and Fire Department; preparation of the annual budget for City and URA; manages the preparation of City Council and URA Board agenda packets and meeting management; oversees election process; oversees City Recorder tasks performed by Administrative Coordinator.

Nichole joined the City of Coos Bay in May 2014. Before becoming City Manager in August of 2023, Nichole Rutherford served several roles in the Finance Department, including Finance Director. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Columbia Southern University and is a proud graduate of Southwestern Oregon Community College, earning her associate degree before transferring to Eastern Oregon University to complete her bachelor's degree in business administration.