Rickelle Willams is stepping down as city manager for the city of Fort Lauderdale.

M•I•A MEDIA GROUP sources recently revealed plans of her departure.

This followed an announcement by Vice Mayor Ben Sorensen that a Mutual Separation Agreement between the City of Fort Lauderdale and Williams would be discussed during their regular commission meeting.

Christopher Cooper will now serve as acting city manager.

“Since assuming the role in April 2025, City Manager Williams has demonstrated dedicated leadership and a strong commitment to improving the City of Fort Lauderdale,” noted Sorensen in a brief online statement. “She has worked to streamline City operations, address long-standing challenges, strengthen organizational efficiency, and position the City for long-term success.”

Williams offered thoughts on her resignation.

“It has been a privilege to serve this community, and I am grateful to the City Commission and our residents for the opportunity,” she said. “I have reached an agreement with the City of Fort Lauderdale to conclude my service as City Manager.

I am proud of what we have accomplished together and appreciate the dedication and professionalism of the City’s employees, who work every day to serve this community.”

During her term, Williams’ role included managing a budget of approximately $1.2 billion, leading over 3,000 city employees and having direct oversight of Fort Lauderdale’s Police and Fire Departments.

Prior to this, Williams served in multiple executive roles for the City of Miami Beach.