Buncombe County, NC - Assistant County Manager

JOB AN EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Buncombe County, NC (pop. 275,000), is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Assistant County Manager (ACM). This is a critical executive leadership position that plays a central role in advancing organizational priorities, supporting the County Manager, and delivering high-impact services to a dynamic and engaged community.
The Assistant County Manager will join a high-performing leadership team committed to innovation, operational excellence, and enhancing the quality of life for residents across Buncombe County.
ABOUT BUNCOMBE COUNTY
Buncombe County is in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina and encompasses approximately 660 square miles.
Anchored by the City of Asheville—the region’s economic and cultural center—the County offers a unique blend of natural beauty, strong community identity, and progressive public policy initiatives.
Population: Approximately 275,000–280,000 residents
Regional Hub: Asheville metropolitan area of over 400,000 residents
Economy: Diverse and resilient, driven by healthcare, tourism, education, and professional services sector.
Quality of Life: Renowned for outdoor recreation, arts and culture, culinary excellence, and vibrant neighborhoods
Buncombe County operates under a Board of Commissioners – County Manager form of government. The County Board of Commissioners consists of seven members, each serving four-year staggered terms through partisan elections.
THE ORGANIZATION
The County Manager serves as the Chief Executive Officer, responsible for implementing Board policy, coordinating departmental operations, and providing overall organizational leadership.
The County’s Management Team includes the County Manager and three (3) Assistant County Managers. Assistant County Managers support the County’s mission by providing executive oversight to assigned departments, leading strategic initiatives, and ensuring alignment between operational activities and the Board’s priorities.
THE POSITION
The Assistant County Manager serves as a senior leader within the County Manager’s Office and provides executive-level oversight, coordination, and direction for assigned departments and initiatives. The position requires exceptional leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a complex and politically sensitive environment. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Executive Leadership & Oversight

• Provide executive direction to assigned departments and leadership teams
• Ensure delivery of efficient, high-quality, and equitable public services
• Evaluate organizational performance and implement improvements
• Mentor and develop senior staff

Strategic Planning & Policy Development

• Support development and execution of the County’s strategic plan
• Analyze complex policy issues and develop actionable recommendations
• Lead organizational change and continuous improvement initiatives

Financial & Operational Management

• Assist in development and oversight of the County’s operating and capital budgets
• Monitor fiscal performance and recommend resource allocation strategies
• Support long-term capital planning and financial sustainability

Intergovernmental & Community Engagement

• Represent the County with regional, state, and local partners
• Serve as liaison to boards, partners, and community stakeholders
• Communicate effectively with the public and elected officials

Project & Program Leadership

• Lead high-priority initiatives and cross-functional projects
• Coordinate complex, multi-departmental programs
• Support emergency management and crisis response when needed

Governance Support

• Assist the County Manager in implementing Board policies and directives
• Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for decision-makers
• Serve in an acting capacity for the County Manager, as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Public Administration, Business Administration, or closely related field.
• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience in local government or comparable organization, including five (5) years as a senior level management (director, deputy and or assistant city/county manager) in local government.
• Demonstrated success managing large, complex organizations or departments
• Experience working closely with elected officials and executive leadership teams

Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered CORE COMPETENCIES
Leadership & Management

• Strong executive presence with the ability to lead diverse teams
• Demonstrated success in organizational leadership and change management

Strategic Thinking

• Ability to align operations with long-term community priorities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Financial Acumen

• Understanding of public sector budgeting, capital planning, and resource allocation

Communication & Relationship Building

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to build trust with elected officials, employees, and the community

Political Acumen

• Skilled in navigating complex governance environments with professionalism and integrity

IDEAL CANDIDATE TRAITS
The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Integrity, transparency, and accountability
• Collaborative leadership style and team orientation
• Innovation and a commitment to continuous improvement
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment
• Strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and community engagement

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Buncombe County Assistant County Manager salary range is $131,641 - $216,470 DOQ. The County offers a competitive executive compensation package commensurate with qualifications and experience, including a comprehensive benefits package. Residency within Buncombe County is not required.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• Cover Letter
• Resume