Happening Now 

The City of Asheville continues its nationwide search as we move toward the retirement of current City Manager Debra Campbell at the end of this year. 

“As we look ahead to the future of our city, we are in the process of searching for a new city manager. This role is vital to ensuring that our city government operates effectively, responsibly, and with the best interests of our residents at heart.  This is especially important as the council works with the City Manager on Helene recovery efforts,” said Mayor Esther Manheimer.

The City is committed to a transparent and inclusive search.

As part of the nationwide recruitment process, led by executive search firm Developmental Associates, LLC,  the community is invited to share leadership qualities important to them through an anonymous online survey. Input from this survey will be used to identify key qualities needed in the next City Manager as well as key priorities for the City. Responses will be collected through Wednesday, September 3, 2025.  

In-person engagement opportunities

In addition to the survey, in-person listening sessions will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. These sessions will provide a space for residents to discuss their ideas directly with representatives from Developmental Associates. Specific times and locations of the meetings are:

September 3, 2025 session dates: 

• Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center, 10 a.m-11 a.m.
• Stephens-Lee Center, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.
• Linwood Crump Shiloh Center, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. 

A summary of the input received will be made available on this page late Fall of 2025.