Deputy County Manager

Overview

The Position

Guilford County is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking Deputy County Manager to serve as a key operational and administrative leader within the County Manager’s Office. This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in shaping countywide priorities, modernizing services, and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence in one of North Carolina’s most dynamic counties. The Deputy County Manager will partner closely with the County Manager, Assistant County Managers, department directors, and community stakeholders to advance initiatives that improve service delivery, strengthen intergovernmental relationships, and support the County’s long-term strategic goals.

• Report directly to the County Manager and oversee internal support departments, including Information Technology, Facilities and Fleet Management, and two Special Project Managers.
• Serve as a liaison to the Register of Deeds, Tax Department, and Board of Elections, as well as to the County’s committees, advisory boards, and task forces.
• Provide strategic oversight for cross-departmental and regional projects in areas such as economic development, capital and infrastructure planning, courthouse operations, non-profit funding, and legislative affairs.
• Direct and develop special project managers within the Manager’s Office, ensuring policy research, strategic planning, and operational initiatives are executed effectively and aligned with countywide objectives.
• Support the Board of Commissioners agenda management process with the County Manager and collaborate with the County Clerk and County Attorney.
• Promote standardization of processes to ensure projects and programs are managed effectively, with a governance, resource management, and performance reporting focus to maximize value and success.
• Aim to align departmental business plans, budgets, and operational priorities; improve operational efficiency; foster internal and external relationships; and maintain transparent communication with elected officials, staff, and the public.

• Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a closely related field. A minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible executive leadership experience, including significant tenure as a department director, county manager, assistant county manager, or equivalent senior executive in a complex public sector organization. Candidates with a relevant master’s degree may be considered with four (4) years of equivalent experience.
• Preferred qualifications include a strong foundational background in traditional local government principles, with experience in county administration, particularly within North Carolina. A master’s degree (MPA or MBA) is strongly preferred. The Deputy County Manager must demonstrate superior leadership, communication, and motivation skills, coupled with proven strategic decision-making abilities and technological proficiency. A sound financial and fiscal background is essential, including extensive experience in budget preparation, fiscal oversight, and successful resource development such as securing competitive grants.
• The County may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.

The expected hiring range is $185,000 - $236,000, depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package. Learn more about working for Guilford County and benefits here.

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at  Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning November 26, 2025.

Qualifications note:
The content includes a statement about diversity and equal opportunity; the County may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.