The Council shall hold the City Manager responsible for the proper management of the affairs of the City, and the City Manager shall keep the Council informed of the conditions and needs of the City and shall make reports and recommendations as may be requested by the Council or deemed necessary by the City Manager. The City Manager shall have the authority to appoint, subject to the confirmation of the Council, and remove all officers, department heads, and employees in the administrative service of the City, except the City Attorney. The City Manager shall have direct supervisory authority over all officers, department heads, and employees in the administrative service of the City. Neither the Mayor, the City Council, nor any member of the City Council shall direct the conduct or activities of any City employee, directly or indirectly, except through the City Manager.