Glenn Caldwell has been named as the new Northville Township manager. The former assistant township manager and human resources director was officially named to the position at a November meeting of the Northville Township Board of Trustees.
He will assume the duties of former Township Manager Todd L. Mutchler who announced his retirement effective Dec. 6.In his new role, Caldwell said he will focus on ensuring the continuity of operations in Northville Township. He added that he plans to build on the successful practices established over the past four years. Caldwell said he places a high value on preserving the township status as a top workplace year after year. In 2023, Northville Township made history as the first local government to receive the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces award. The township learned in November it won that honor once again for 2024.
“Fostering a positive workplace culture is incredibly important—a lesson I came to deeply appreciate during my time as HR Director,” Caldwell said. “It’s something I’m committed to continuing and building upon in this new role.”
He said he has made it a priority to meet one-on-one with staff to better understand their goals, emphasizing the importance of valuing employees and fostering strong working relationships to better serve residents.
A strong advocate for teamwork and collaboration, he said he encourages a supportive environment within the leadership team, recognizing that many projects require cross-departmental cooperation. Building new relationships within the community is also a priority for him. He said he is eager to connect with as many community members as possible.
Mutchler, who mentored Caldwell throughout his journey, particularly this last year, told him, “Every day is an interview.”
Mutchler said he has closely observed Caldwell’s his growth and success, noting that the continuous development and dedication to the community earned him his new position.
A lifelong Novi resident and graduate of Novi High School, Caldwell’s career in the public sector began at 16, when he took a co-op opportunity at Novi City Hall while still in high school. He completed general education studies at Oakland Community College before pursuing a degree in human resources management at Madonna University.
Caldwell dedicated the next 20 years to public service in Novi, where he transitioned from working in finance and the manager’s office into human resources as the needs of the city evolved, he recalled.
In 2019, he joined Northville Township, where he served as the Human Resources Director.
“Under Todd Mutchler’s leadership, I’ve come to understand how vital it is to prioritize your team and their well-being,” Caldwell said. “I’m here to provide that support.”
Caldwell said he recognizes the vital support from department directors, who are subject matter experts in their respective fields. As township manager, he said he views himself as a communication conduit between directors and the board, ensuring alignment and transparency.
Although Caldwell may have to put aside some of his favorite hobbies—golfing, yard work, and cheering on the Detroit Lions—he said he is excited to embrace this exciting new chapter of his career.
“With a deep appreciation for the community and its people, Manager Caldwell is ready to lead Northville Township into a future of shared success and continued progress,” said Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo.