General Services Director
City of Winston-Salem, NC
Overview
The General Services Director is a seasoned public-sector executive and collaborative leader with a proven record of directing complex, multi-disciplinary functions that support city-wide operations. This is an exciting opportunity to oversee the creation of a new General Services Department. The inaugural General Services Director will oversee a broad range of operational services, including but not limited to property and facilities management, vegetation management, city-owned and operated cemeteries, sustainability programs, and the City's central warehouse.
The ideal candidate brings a strong operational background, a proactive mindset, and a deep commitment to public service. Success in this role requires more than technical expertise. It requires strategic leadership, critical thinking, and strong problem-solving skills to drive operational improvements and deliver high-quality service to city residents.
The Director, reporting to an Assistant City Manager, works closely with internal departments and external partners to align services with strategic goals and community needs, while fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation.
Examples of Duties
Examples of Duties
Provides strategic direction and executive-level oversight to assigned departments and functions, applying advanced management principles with a focus on organizational impact and community outcomes.
Establishes departmental goals and objectives and leads the implementation of citywide policies and operational directives, ensuring consistency, accountability, and alignment with organizational strategy.
Oversees the development and execution of operating and capital budgets, guiding financial planning, analysis, and forecasting; ensures responsible stewardship of public resources while supporting informed decision-making by senior leadership and City Council.
Leads the development, review, and delivery of complex reports, plans, and presentations; ensures data-driven decision-making, clear communication with stakeholders, and compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards.
Leads organizational change with intention and empathy, helping teams navigate transition while maintaining trust, clarity, and stability.
Coordinates with, and serves as a liaison to, the City Council, the general public, City departments, and/or agencies; represents the department at meetings, workshops, and conferences; and manages and conducts community relations activities related to department policy and operations, anticipating and mitigating issues and concerns.
Provides effective and professional leadership and direction, creating a collaborative and communicative environment that promotes positive employee morale and drives change throughout the department.
Builds and develops talent within the department, providing coaching and mentoring opportunities to promote advancement within the organization
Is politically aware but apolitical concerning departmental matters
Is an innovative and creative leader who challenges the status quo to create operational efficiencies and enhance organizational culture
Monitors state and federal regulatory and legislative changes and provides analysis of potential impact to the City
Perform other duties of a similar nature or level
In an emergency event or an officially declared State of Emergency, responds as directed to ensure the restoration of essential public services, facilities, and infrastructure
Typical Qualifications
Education and Experience
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, facilities management, or related field.
Seven (7) to ten (10) years of progressive experience in operations, facilities, or general services management, preferably in the public sector
Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a leadership or executive management role in a public sector setting.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Extensive experience in budget preparation, financial analysis, and cost control measures.
Knowledge of public procurement, contract negotiation, and vendor management.
Ability to analyze data, generate reports, and make data-driven decisions.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise, mentor, and develop staff.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with City officials, vendors, and the public.
Is process-oriented and results-oriented in setting and pursuing strategic goals and objectives, demonstrating a strong commitment to organizational success
Demonstrated problem-solving, analytical, critical-thinking, and decision-making skills.
Is collaborative; builds and works with teams.
Creative thinker who challenges conventional solutions.
Demonstrates and promotes ethical behavior.
Has strong leadership skills and proven judgment of talent, with an emphasis on hiring and developing high performance teams.
Supplemental Information
Licensing and Certifications
Valid U.S. Driver's License, with a valid N.C. license obtained within 6 months of appointment
Physical Requirements
Work is principally sedentary but may involve some physical exertion and eyestrain from working with computers and other office equipment.
Work involves the normal risks and discomfort associated with an office environment.
Work requires participation at meetings during and outside regular work hours and working extended hours.
Work involves preparing documents, communication with staff and customers located at other facilities.
Residency Requirements
Residency within 30 miles of Winston-Salem City Hall is required within 6 months of appointment