After a year-long search and three interim county managers, Athens-Clarke County will soon vote on who its next full-time manager will be.
Mayor Kelly Girtz announced this week that Robert (Bob) Cowell, Jr., is the sole finalist for the position of ACCGov Manager. The announcement follows a nationwide search and interviews with four candidates earlier this month.
Cowell brings more than 30 years of experience in city and county leadership roles. He most recently served as City Manager of Roanoke, Virginia, and has held leadership positions in Amarillo, Texas; College Station, Texas; and Monroe County, Indiana.
“Athens-Clarke County is an exceptional place,” Cowell said. “I very much look forward to working with the Mayor, the Commission, ACCGov staff and community members to ensure Athens-Clarke County remains a vibrant community for all who call it home.”
Cowell holds a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Tennessee and a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics from St. Louis University. He is a Credentialed Manager with the International City/County Management Association and a Certified Urban Planner.
The selection process, conducted in partnership with Strategic Government Resources, drew about 50 candidates from 17 states and two countries. A search committee of commissioners narrowed the field to four finalists, who participated in a two-day selection process that included staff interviews, community tours, and meetings with stakeholders.
“Bob Cowell has spent lengthy and successful tenures in a number of large and complex cities, including several hosting major public universities,” said Girtz “His thoughtful approach to staff support and community development will be an enormous asset to the Unified Government and to residents of Athens-Clarke County.”
Mayor Girtz is expected to present Cowell’s employment agreement for formal approval at a Special Called Session on July 15. If approved, Cowell will begin his new role on July 28.
