Long-Time City Employees Invested in Key Leadership Roles

*BATTLE CREEK, Mich.* — The City of Battle Creek has announced the promotion of two veteran employees to key leadership positions, naming Marcie Gillette as the new Assistant City Manager and Bush McCarthy as Fire Chief.

The hiring decisions were announced on Monday by City Manager Amanda Zimmerlin, who emphasized that both appointees exemplify the city's commitment to investing in experienced employees who have built their careers serving Battle Creek.

"While we always value the perspectives and ideas external candidates bring, moments like this reflect the strength of investing in people who have built their careers serving Battle Creek and are ready to take on greater responsibility," Zimmerlin said.

Marcie Gillette Named Assistant City Manager

Gillette, who joined the city in 1998 and most recently served as Community Services Director, will succeed Ted Dearing, who is retiring at the end of April following more than 30 years of service to Battle Creek.

Gillette holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and a bachelor's degree in human services administration from Siena Heights University. She has demonstrated deep institutional knowledge of the city's operations and has been a steady presence in city hall for nearly three decades.

"Marcie Gillette brings deep institutional knowledge, steady leadership and an unwavering commitment to public service to the role of assistant city manager," Zimmerlin said. "She has demonstrated sound judgment, professionalism and a strong dedication to our community throughout her career."

Gillette is also a member of the International City/County Management Association and currently serves as vice chair of the Battle Creek Housing Commission.

Bush McCarthy Appointed Fire Chief

McCarthy, a member of the Fire Department since 2008 and a Master Sergeant in the Michigan Air National Guard, steps into the permanent chief role following an 18-month period of interim leadership.

He was promoted to battalion chief in March 2025 and has since served alongside the city's previous fire chief during a transitional period. McCarthy holds a bachelor's degree in communications from Albion College and brings extensive fire service experience to the role.

"Bush McCarthy's experience in the fire service and long tenure with the City of Battle Creek make him well suited to serve as fire chief," Zimmerlin said. "His leadership will support continued progress while keeping the wellbeing of our firefighters and neighbors at the forefront."

In addition to his fire service career, McCarthy serves on multiple regional boards, including the American Red Cross Southwest Michigan and the Calhoun County Medical Control Authority board.

Promote From Within Approach

The promotions highlight a broader trend in Battle Creek government of promoting qualified internal candidates to leadership positions. Both Gillette and McCarthy bring decades of hands-on experience with city operations, community engagement, and emergency response services.

Zimmerlin's decision to promote from within reflects a philosophy that values institutional knowledge and established relationships with the community. The approach ensures leadership continuity while maintaining strong ties to the organizations and departments these leaders oversee.

Both leaders will take on expanded responsibilities as they move into their new roles, providing strategic oversight and management support to City Manager Amanda Zimmerlin and her administration.

A date for when McCarthy would officially move into the role of fire chief was not immediately announced, though he is expected to assume the position soon.

Community Impact

The promotions come at a time when Battle Creek continues to address a range of community needs, from emergency services to urban development. Having leaders who understand the city's history and operations can help ensure consistent, effective governance while building on past achievements.

The city has long valued public service and has a reputation for developing local talent into leadership positions. These two appointments continue that tradition, bringing experienced, committed leaders to the forefront of Battle Creek government.