Town Manager

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Town Manager

Town of Waynesville, NC

Guided by its inspiring motto, "Progress with Vision," the Town of Waynesville, NC, invites experienced, empathetic, and ethical leaders to apply for the position of Town Manager. This role offers a rare, defining opportunity for a visionary public administrator to guide a vibrant mountain community through a pivotal era of recovery, strategic growth, and long-term capital opportunity.

If you are a skilled public servant and a "big city leader" who can bring the experience and perspective of a larger organization while thriving in a close-knit, relationship-driven "small-town environment," Waynesville is your next professional home.

The Opportunity & Challenge Ahead

Waynesville is a community defined by deep pride of place, engaged residents, and an exceptional volunteer spirit. Following the impacts of Hurricane Helene in September 2024, the Town is steadily transitioning from crisis response to a highly strategic future. The incoming Town Manager will work hand-in-hand with the Mayor and Town Council to architect the Town's first formal Strategic Plan, with a heavy emphasis on funding and executing the rehabilitation of vital municipal infrastructure.

Concurrently, you will manage increasing development pressures, steering regional growth in alignment with the Town's proactive 2035 Comprehensive Land Use Plan, "Planning with Purpose." Supported by a stable, well-educated, and dedicated internal Leadership Team, you will have the foundation needed to drive meaningful operational improvements.

About the Organization

Operating under the council-manager form of government, the Town Manager serves as the Chief Administrative Officer, reporting to a five-member elected body (the Mayor and four at-large Council members).

• Financial Scope: Managing a comprehensive $38.9 million budget (FY2026).
• Team Size: Leading 215 full-time equivalent employees and 75-80 seasonal staff.
• Direct Reports: Assistant Town Manager, Human Resources Director, Human Resources Coordinator, and Town Clerk.
• The Town currently does not have a Strategic Plan, though staff have expressed interest in developing one to help guide the organization's future direction.

About Our Community

Known affectionately as the "Gateway to the Smokies," Waynesville (pop. 11,000) is the largest town west of Asheville and serves as the bustling county seat of Haywood County. Nestled against the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it offers unparalleled outdoor recreation alongside a sophisticated, blue-collar mountain charm.

Waynesville remains a beautiful small mountain community with a close-knit population that is navigating both the recovery from a century storm and the natural growing pains that come with new housing and growth. What truly distinguishes Waynesville is its people. Residents are deeply invested in the community and take an active interest in local decision-making. This creates both an opportunity and an expectation for the Town Manager to be visible, communicate clearly, and stay engaged with the community.

The town boasts a legendary arts and festival culture-featuring the Folkmoot International Dance Festival, the Apple Harvest Festival, the Church Street Art & Craft Show, and the Appalachian True Heritage Festival. It is especially known for its charming downtown district centered on historic Main Street and the revitalized Frog Level district which serve as thriving regional hubs for local boutiques, craft breweries, galleries, and dining, all heavily supported by locals and returning tourists alike. Waynesville features a stable population base, including a prominent retirement community (26% of residents are age 65 or older) that actively engages with local government.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor's degree in public administration, public affairs, business management, or a related field, combined with 10 years of progressively responsible local government or business leadership experience.
• Strongly Preferred: 5+ years of experience specifically serving at the level of Assistant Manager or Town Manager.
• Highly Desired: Master's degree (MPA/MBA); familiarity with NC municipal management; professional certifications/memberships (ICMA, NCCCMA); and completion of the Municipal/County Administration Course from the UNC Chapel Hill School of Government.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hiring Range: $123,000 - $181,000 (Dependent upon qualifications and experience).
• Benefits: Competitive package including group health, dental, and life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and North Carolina statutory retirement benefits. A complete summary can be viewed here.