The day-to-day business of operating the City is the responsibility of the City Manager, the chief administrator of the City appointed by the Mayor and City Council. The City Manager is responsible for providing and maintaining the essential City services through the efficient and effective management and operation of the City. The City provides many basic services to the citizens of Cincinnati, including fire and police protection, solid waste management, recreational activities, greenspace management, community and economic development, water and sewer management, and maintenance of the public infrastructure.

The City Manager delegates responsibility and coordinates the many tasks performed daily by City employees. The Mayor and City Council determine policies and set direction for the City through legislative measures, but the execution of policy is the paramount responsibility of the City Manager. The City Manager executes the policy direction set by the Mayor and City Council through the management of 17 City departments and approximately 6,500 employees.