The City of South Pasadena is a general law city incorporated on March 2, 1888. It is governed by the City Council/City Manager form of government. The City Manager is appointed by the council to oversee the activities of the city. The City Manager serves as the chief executive officer of the City of South Pasadena under the direction of the Mayor and City Council. The City Manager is responsible for the efficient and effective administration and daily operation of all City operations, including overseeing of the following Departments: Community Services, Finance, Fire, Library, Planning and Building, Police and Public Works. The City Manager is responsible for implementing the policy directives of the City Council.

Additional duties of the City Manager include: (1) Representing the City in legislative matters at the state and federal government levels; (2) Working with other agencies in addressing regional issues; (3) Overseeing operations of the City Hall and services to the community; (4) Providing information to the Council in a timely manner including formulation of City Council agendas.