City Council Selects Martha Bennett as Medford’s Next City Manager

Published on September 18, 2026

The Medford City Council has selected Martha Bennett to serve as Medford’s next City Manager. Bennett brings more than 25 years of public-sector leadership experience in Oregon, including service as City Manager of Lake Oswego, City Administrator of Ashland and Chief Operating Officer of Metro.

Bennett will begin her role with the City of Medford on November 30. Interim City Manager John Vial will continue serving in the position until Bennett begins.

“Martha has demonstrated throughout her career that she understands how to lead a complex city organization while working closely with an elected council to advance its goals,” said Mayor Michael Zarosinski. “Her depth of experience in Oregon local government, familiarity with Southern Oregon and collaborative approach will serve Medford well. We look forward to welcoming her back to the Rogue Valley.”

Bennett most recently served as City Manager for Lake Oswego from 2019 to February 2026, where she led a full-service city organization and worked with the City Council on major infrastructure, redevelopment and organizational priorities. Her previous experience includes nearly eight years as Chief Operating Officer of Metro (an Oregon regional government serving multiple cities and counties) and five years as City Administrator for Ashland.

Bennett’s time in Ashland gives her previous experience in Southern Oregon and the Rogue Valley, where she oversaw a full-service municipal organization and worked on issues including public safety, infrastructure, economic development and regional partnerships.

“I am thrilled by the chance to serve as Medford’s next City Manager. I look forward to working with the Mayor, Council and Medford’s outstanding staff. I’m also excited to work alongside non-profit and government partners, the business community, faith institutions and residents to build on Medford’s successes and help shape its future,” Bennett said.

Her career also includes leadership positions with the Columbia River Gorge Commission and the cities of Milwaukie, Albany, Portland and Pinole, California. Bennett holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley and a bachelor’s degree from Willamette University.

“Congratulations to the City of Medford on the hiring of Martha Bennett. Her expertise, abilities and direct approach to getting projects completed will be appreciated by all members of the community. She looks at operations from every angle to find every opportunity for success,” said Liz Hartman, CEO of the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce.

Bennett was selected following a nationwide recruitment that attracted nearly 40 applicants and included interviews with three finalists.

About the City Manager

The City Manager is appointed by and serves at the direction of the Medford City Council and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of City government, implementation of Council policies and priorities, and oversight of City departments and services.