Fort Mill Town Manager Search

Swiftwater Strategies – Powered by MRB Group is pleased to announce our engagement with the Town of Fort Mill for the executive search of the next Town Manager.

About Fort Mill

Established in 1873, the Town of Fort Mill is located in York County just south of the North Carolina state line and close to the neighboring areas of Rock Hill, SC, and Charlotte, NC. Steeped in history and having just celebrated the 150th Anniversary of its incorporation, the Town takes its name from a colonial-era fort built by the British and a grist mill on nearby Steele Creek. According to 2022 U.S. Census estimates, about 31,000 residents called Fort Mill home within the Town limits.


The quality of life in Fort Mill is unmatched. This picturesque Town regularly attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its access to the Anne Springs Close Greenway, a 2,100–acre preserve of green space known for its walking and biking trails. Fort Mill also offers a charming mix of both long-established and newly built homes, along with mixed-use developments filled with housing and shopping such as Kingsley Town Center located just off I-77.


Another highlight of Fort Mill is the nationally recognized Fort Mill School District, which currently has 20 school sites and enrollment of more than 18,000 students. According to the SC Department of Education, in 2023 the district performed best among all 76 South Carolina districts in test score data for elementary and middle school students. The district has also seen several of its schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools and its high schools boasted a graduation rate of 95% in 2023.

Job Summary/Duties

This position is responsible for managing the operations of the Town of Fort Mill.

1. Executive Oversight and Administration:

  • Manages the daily operations of the Town government, including overseeing departmental activities and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
  • Coordinates activities with other government agencies at the county, state, and federal levels.
  • Executes policies and directives established by the Town Council, overseeing budget development and financial management.
  • Serves as a strategic advisor to the Mayor and Council, providing clear and timely information on key projects, programs, and fiscal matters.

2. Community-Driven Program Development and Engagement:

  • Oversees the development and implementation of programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for all residents.
  • Creates and executes strategic plans for programs and projects, ensuring alignment with community goals and aspirations.
  • Fosters open communication and transparency with the public, ensuring residents are informed and engaged in Town affairs.
  • Maintains positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, including citizens, boards and commissions, and other government agencies.

3. Personnel Management and Staff Leadership:

  • Provides guidance and direction to department heads, setting clear expectations and promoting effective leadership within the Town’s workforce.
  • Monitors staff performance through established evaluation systems, ensuring accountability and adherence to performance standards.
  • Oversees hiring, promotions, and other personnel actions, adhering to established policies and procedures.
  • Manages change effectively, communicating plans and objectives to staff and facilitating collaboration through regular departmental meetings.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is required for consideration; master’s degree in public administration, regional planning, business administration or a related field is preferred but not required.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of increasingly responsible experience in governmental management or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to be effective in the position.
  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
  • Residency in Fort Mill preferred.

To Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to apply@swiftwaterstrategies.com by Monday, February 5, 2024 5:00 PM (EST). You may also send any questions you might have to the same email.