Deputy County Manager

Cleveland County; Shelby (NC); On-site; USD 146,000 - 189,000; Full time

Job summary

Cleveland County is seeking a collaborative Deputy County Manager to support the County Manager in day-to-day operations and advance strategic priorities across the organization.

The position requires strategic perspective and operational expertise, with responsibilities including leadership across multiple departments, cross-functional initiatives, and board-level reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration or related field.
• 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in local government, including supervisory and executive-level responsibilities.
• Knowledge of county government operations, budgeting, and strategic planning with strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the County Manager to guide overall administration and coordination of County operations.
• Act as Acting County Manager when needed to ensure leadership continuity.
• Oversee assigned departments and align operations with strategic goals.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication skills

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration or related field

Master's degree in Public Administration (preferred)

Tools

ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM)

CPM credential

UNC School of Government certifications

Municipal and County Administration Certificate

Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA)

Job description

Cleveland County is seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Deputy County Manager. As a key member of the County’s executive leadership team, this individual will work closely with the County Manager to support the day-to-day operations of county government while helping shape and advance strategic priorities across the organization. The position requires both strategic perspective and operational expertise. The Deputy County Manager will oversee a broad portfolio of departments, lead cross-functional initiatives, and help ensure that Board priorities are translated into meaningful results for the community.

The role also serves as a trusted partner to the County Manager and may act in their absence, playing an important part in leadership continuity and succession planning. The Deputy County Manager provides both direct and indirect leadership across multiple county departments through department heads and senior leaders. Responsibilities include supporting team performance, workforce planning, talent development, and ensuring compliance with county policies and procedures.

To view the full position profile, please visit Cleveland County DCM Profile

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Leadership & Organizational Oversight

• Partner with the County Manager to guide the overall administration and coordination of County operations
• Serve as Acting County Manager when needed, ensuring continuity in leadership and decision-making
• Provide direct oversight to assigned departments, aligning operations with strategic goals and improving performance

Strategic Initiatives & Performance Management

• Lead countywide initiatives and complex, cross-departmental projects
• Drive performance improvement efforts and strengthen organizational effectiveness
• Monitor departmental outcomes and provide guidance and support to department leaders

Board & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the County Manager in meetings with elected officials, community partners, and regional organizations
• Prepare reports, presentations, and policy recommendations for the Board of Commissioners
• Build and maintain strong relationships across stakeholders to advance county priorities
• Participate in the development and administration of the county’s annual budget
• Support responsible resource allocation and fiscal management across departments

Emergency Operations Leadership

• Support the County’s emergency response efforts when activated, including participation in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and coordination of interdepartmental response activities
• Act on behalf of the County Manager during emergency situations as needed

Other key areas of responsibility 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.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field is required; Master’s degree in Public Administration is preferred.
• 7+ 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 & Abilities

• Experience working directly with elected officials and managing cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with North Carolina local government statutes and practices is preferred.

License & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license, minimum required state vehicle insurance, and insurable driver’s record.
• ICMA Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM) or Certified Public Manager (CPM) credential preferred.
• UNC School of Government Certifications preferred
• Municipal and County Administration Certificate
• Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA)
• Leading for Results

COMPENSATION

The salary range at the time of hire is expected to be between $146,000 – $189,000. The salary offered will be commensurate with experience. The County offers comprehensive benefits to complement the salary provided to staff.