The City Manager's Office is responsible for the implementation of decisions established by the Irvine City Council and the coordination of those efforts through the various City departments. The City Manager's office includes legislative support, policy implementation, budget development and strategic planning, economic development, elections, communication services and legal service functions of the City. In addition, the office provides leadership for the operational departments.

The City Manager's Office assists the City Council in the development and formulation of policies, goals and objectives, and keeps them informed of important community issues. It provides administrative direction to the City's executive directors and is responsible for managing the activities and operations of the City, ensuring the provision of quality services. The City Manager's Office is also responsible for representing the City's interests throughout the region and beyond through coordination of international activities, receiving foreign officials and promoting business development with foreign countries.