The Deputy County Manager serves as a key member of the County’s executive leadership team and provides high-level administrative and operational support to the County Manager. This position is responsible for overseeing a broad portfolio of county departments and functions, coordinating strategic initiatives, and ensuring the effective implementation of Board policies and countywide goals. The Deputy County Manager may act on behalf of the County Manager in their absence and plays a critical role in succession planning and organizational continuity.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include:
Supports the County Manager in the overall administration and coordination of county government operations. Serves as Acting County Manager in the County Manager’s absence.

Provides direct oversight to assigned departments, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and operational efficiency. Monitors departmental performance and provides guidance to department heads

Leads countywide initiatives, interdepartmental projects, and performance improvement efforts.

Represents the County Manager in meetings with elected officials, community stakeholders, and regional partners.

Participates in the development and administration of the county budget.

Prepares reports, presentations, and policy recommendations for the Board of Commissioners.

This position may be required to support the County’s emergency operations during declared emergencies or disasters. Duties may include serving in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), coordinating interdepartmental response efforts, or acting on behalf of the County Manager as needed.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Supervisors, Managers, and Directors play a critical role in ensuring operational efficiency, team productivity, and organizational success through subordinate department leaders. Key areas of responsibilities include but are not limited to: Team Management, Performance Monitoring & Feedback, Training & Development, Recruitment & Hiring, Onboarding, Termination & Disciplinary Actions, Compliance & Policy Adherence, Problem Solving & Communication, and Workforce Planning & Delegation.

The responsibilities and duties outlined above are intended to provide a general outline and summary of this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive or comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed, with or without notice, to meet the needs of the department and county.

Salary
Annual Compensation: $145,000 - $175,000. Starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Comprehensive Benefits:
Premium Health Coverage: $0 employee-only premium and up to $1,100 annual HSA contribution.

Enhanced Wellness & Dental Programs: Employee Wellness Center with Pharmacy as low as $0–$5.

Participation in the NC Local Government Retirement System, plus a 6% 401(k)/457 employer contribution.

Supplemental Protection Options: Life, disability, accident, and critical illness coverage for additional peace of mind.

Work-Life Excellence: Generous leave accruals, paid holidays, YMCA membership discounts, and potential organizational performance bonuses awarded twice annually.

Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred) and at least 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in local government, including supervisory and executive-level responsibilities. Demonstrated knowledge of county government operations, budgeting, and strategic planning with strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (preferred)

Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA) or related field.

Experience working directly with elected officials and managing cross-functional teams.

Familiarity with North Carolina local government statutes and practices.

Special Requirements
Licenses & Certifications: Valid driver’s license, minimum required state vehicle insurance, and insurable driver’s record.

Preferred Certifications:
ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM).

Certified Public Manager (CPM)

UNC School of Government Certifications

Municipal and County Administration Certificate

Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA)

Leading for Results

Miscellaneous

Work Location:
This role must work from the location identified at the time of hire with work travel required as needed. The County may require the Deputy County Manager to reside within Cleveland County or within a reasonable commuting distance, as determined by the County Manager.

Additional information:
Individuals hired must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Cleveland County provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.