Medford Announces Resignation of City Manager Rob Field

MEDFORD, Ore. (Nov 18, 2025) — The City of Medford announced Monday that City Manager Rob Field will resign effective Nov. 24, 2025, marking the end of a tenure that began just over a year earlier with broad support from city leadership.

Field, who was appointed in 2024 following the retirement of longtime City Manager Brian Sjothun, brought more than 30 years of experience in local government and the private sector. His background included serving as city manager for San Bernardino, California, and holding senior roles within Riverside County, including Assistant County Executive Officer for the Economic Development Agency and Director of Facilities Management. His work in Riverside County also encompassed capital project planning, community engagement and negotiating complex development agreements.

Field holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of California, Riverside, and a master’s degree in leadership and organizational studies from California Baptist University. When the Medford City Council selected him, Council President Tim D’Alessandro praised Field’s “vast experience and proven track record in municipal management and economic development,” calling him an ideal fit to guide the city’s long-term goals and initiatives.

In Monday’s announcement, the Medford City Council thanked Field for his service and “extended its gratitude for his contributions,” noting that it wishes him well in his future endeavors. No reason for the resignation was provided.

The council said it remains focused on ensuring a smooth leadership transition while maintaining continuity in city operations. Officials will now begin the process of selecting Medford’s next city manager, a search expected to involve a formal recruitment period and opportunities for public updates as the process moves forward. An interim city manager will be appointed during the search.

To maintain day-to-day stability, Assistant City Manager Debbie Grady will serve as acting city manager until an interim leader is chosen. The city said all departments will continue normal operations, and employees have been instructed to maintain routine business processes, reporting lines and service delivery without interruption.

Field’s departure comes during a period of ongoing development and community planning projects in Medford, many of which were initiated or advanced during his time in the role. His eventual successor will be tasked with guiding key initiatives related to economic growth, infrastructure investment and long-term planning previously outlined by city leadership.

This is a developing story. Medford Alert News will provide additional information when it becomes available.