Milton Dohoney Jr.

Milton Dohoney Jr. grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, during the turbulent 1960s, where the values of resilience, service, and education shaped the foundation of his life. A product of the Catholic school system, he went on to build a career that spans more than four decades, leaving a transformative impact across the United States. Today, he serves as City Administrator of Ann Arbor, Michigan, carrying forward his legacy as a servant-leader and pragmatic problem solver.

Over the course of his career, Milton has held leadership roles in five major U.S. cities, Louisville, Lexington, Cincinnati, Phoenix, and Ann Arbor. Whether as deputy mayor, city manager, chief administrative officer, or assistant city manager, he consistently displayed an ability to lead with composure, deliver results, and navigate challenges with clarity. His reputation as a calm, steady leader has earned him recognition and awards at every stage of his journey. At the same time, he has also shared his expertise as a faculty member at four universities, shaping future leaders through both practice and teaching.

Milton’s leadership has been pivotal in driving forward major economic and housing development initiatives, strengthening public safety strategies, and guiding cities through times of crisis. In Phoenix, he led the city’s COVID-19 response during the pandemic, a testament to his resilience under extraordinary pressure. His coordination skills have also extended to large-scale global and national events such as the Super Bowl, World Choir Games, College Championship Games, and the Kentucky Derby, ensuring their seamless execution while supporting community pride and engagement.

A hallmark of Milton’s journey has been his willingness to take on the most challenging assignments. Rather than seeking out what was safe or comfortable, he deliberately pursued projects that pushed him beyond his limits. While his choices sometimes drew skepticism from others, he met each challenge with thorough preparation and determination. This mindset, rooted in respect for the sacrifices of his family and his belief in the power of preparation, propelled him steadily into top leadership roles.

Beyond administration, Milton is a gifted communicator who believes in the power of storytelling to connect communities with the work being done on their behalf. His oratory skills have earned him national invitations, including the opportunity to speak at the White House during the Clinton administration. He encourages his teams to use narrative not just to inform, but to inspire and empower the people they serve.

Recognizing that he is closer to the end of his career than the beginning, Milton authored It Always Begins With Leadership, a book that distills his experiences and philosophy for aspiring leaders. While particularly relevant to those interested in city management, the lessons in his book are applicable to anyone committed to servant leadership. His advice is clear: never allow others to set your ceiling, prepare obsessively, and lead with an iron will balanced by humility and collaboration. For him, lasting impact is never about “I” but always about “we.” Vulnerability, he believes, is not weakness but an essential part of growth and transformation.

From his early beginnings in Louisville to his role today in Ann Arbor, Milton Dohoney Jr.’s journey reflects a lifetime of service, resilience, and leadership. His story is not only about professional accomplishments but also about redefining success through preparation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to helping communities reach their highest potential.