The current mayor is Michele Guerra, member of Italia in Comune, who took office on 1 July 2022.

According to the Italian Constitution, the mayor of Parma is member of the city council.

The mayor is elected by the population of Parma, who also elect the members of the city council, controlling the mayor's policy guidelines and is able to enforce his resignation by a motion of no confidence.

The mayor is entitled to appoint and release the members of his government.

Since 1994, under provisions of new local administration law, the Mayor of Parma is chosen by direct election.