In 1485 he was Gonfaloniere di Giustizia, and after that he served as Podestà of Colle di Val d'Elsa. He was among the civis et architectus working on the facade of S. Maria del Fiore in January 1491. His presence in the executive branch of the Florentinian government suggests that Manetti was well connected with influential thinkers of his time.
Manetti's involvement in various roles, including Gonfaloniere di Giustizia and Podestà of Colle di Val d'Elsa, from 1485 indicates his connections to influential figures of his time. His collaboration on S. Maria del Fiore's facade in January 1491 highlights his civic engagement.