Jasper County, South Carolina Administrator Search
Jasper County, SC is seeking an experienced, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as County Administrator, the chief administrative officer responsible for overseeing the daily operations of county government and implementing the policies and directives of County Council. This executive leadership position provides oversight of county departments and operations while guiding long-range planning, fiscal management, organizational effectiveness, and public service delivery in one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing regions.
The County Administrator works closely with County Council, elected officials, department directors, regional partners, and the public to ensure responsive, transparent, and efficient government operations consistent with the South Carolina Home Rule Act and all applicable laws and regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct and oversee county operations, departments, and senior leadership staff.
- Advise County Council on administrative, operational, financial, legislative, and policy matters.
- Lead strategic planning, organizational development, and implementation of county initiatives.
- Oversee preparation and administration of the county budget and monitor fiscal performance.
- Coordinate intergovernmental relations and represent Jasper County at public meetings and community events.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including the South Carolina Home Rule Act.
- Respond to citizen concerns and promote effective public communication and customer service.
- Support emergency operations and countywide response efforts as needed.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Political Science, Government, or a closely related field preferred.
- ICMA credentialed professional preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible senior management or executive leadership experience in local government or public administration.
- Working knowledge of the South Carolina Home Rule Act.
- Strong knowledge of county government operations, budgeting, personnel management, strategic planning, public policy, and planning and zoning procedures, including Smart Growth practices.
- Demonstrated leadership, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
- Experience working in both rural and urban environments.
- Must be willing to establish residency in Jasper County within (6) six months, unless express written consent from County Council is given.
- Valid South Carolina driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
Compensation and Benefits
Jasper County offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Application Process
Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to Heather Simmons Jones at heather.simmonsjones@swiftwaterstrategies.com with subject line as “County Administrator-Jasper County”.
Application Deadline – July 9, 2026
About Jasper County, South Carolina
Located in the state’s southern Lowcountry, Jasper County spans 662 square miles along the Georgia border and is known as the “Gateway to the Lowcountry”. Its county seat is Ridgeland, and its largest community is Hardeeville. Thanks to its prime location along Interstate 95 and proximity to major ports, it is among the fastest-growing counties in the US.
