The essay aims at investigating the knowledge and skills that public administrations need to manage smart cities. The research offers a reflection on the expertise relevant to civil servant figures currently emerging in Italy. These figures are required in the municipal organisation to address the local and global challenges that smart cities face in the era of environmental and digital transition. The author argues that enhancing upskill and re-skill in the main areas of smart cities (environment, economy, living, mobility, governance, people) is an essential driver to make the smart transition possible and consistent with the democratic framework and the principles of good administration.