County Administrator

LANCASTER COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR

Lancaster County, a diverse and high growth County located within the burgeoning Charlotte metropolitan area, is seeking a strategic and visionary leader with experience managing a growing local government to become the next County Administrator. The County Administrator is Lancaster County’s Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for day‑to‑day operations across departments under Council’s authority and for executing the policies established by the elected County Council in accordance with South Carolina law (§49630 et seq.).

The Administrator reports directly to the County Council.

At 549 square miles, Lancaster County is considered a high growth community and has recently surpassed 110,000 in population. As of the 2024 Census Estimate, Lancaster County was the 3rd fastest growing county in South Carolina from 2020 to 2024, the 43rd fastest growing county in the United States, and has grown to the 573rd largest county in the United States, based on total population.

Lead at the center of growth. Lancaster County is experiencing sustained expansion while preserving the distinct identities of its urban, suburban, and rural communities. The County’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan provides a clear framework for responsible growth, infrastructure, and quality services—an ideal platform for a results‑oriented administrator to make visible impact.

Personnel: 673 FTE and 762 PTE

Budget:
Combined Funds = $160M;
General Fund = $103M

• Execute Council policy and legislative direction. Turn Council actions into operational plans; recommend policy improvements rooted in data and best practices.
• Oversee countywide operations. Coordinate the daily functions of all departments under Council’s authority to achieve Council goals and high service standards.
• Lead budgeting and financial management. Submit the annual operating budget for Council approval; administer the adopted budget; provide regular financial reporting and analysis.
• Strengthen people, culture, and performance. Administer personnel policies (including classification/compensation plans); hire, develop, evaluate, and, when necessary, take corrective actions consistent with state law and Council appropriations.
• Build effective teams. Direct, coach, and review department leaders; maintain standards; address performance issues; and recommend promotions and salary actions.
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance. Coordinate with constitutional/elected offices as appropriate and ensure compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations.
• Partner with regional stakeholders. Work closely with municipalities, state and federal agencies, utilities, the school district, and community partners to align services and investments.
• Engage with the community. Respond to citizen and Council member requests; serve as a transparent communicator with media, businesses, civic groups, and residents.
• Deliver professional administration. Prepare and present reports, policies, contracts, and communications that enable sound decisions and clear accountability.

The ideal County Administrator for Lancaster County is a strategic, data‑driven, and forward‑looking executive leader capable of managing one of the fastest‑growing counties in South Carolina. This professional brings deep experience in local government administration, excels at managing rapid growth, and possesses the leadership acumen to modernize operations, strengthen culture, and build trust with Council, staff, and the community.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success serving as a chief administrative officer or senior local‑government executive, with experience coordinating, planning, and directing the operations of multiple departments. They must possess the skill to execute Council policy, administer budgets, and oversee personnel systems across a complex organization. They are comfortable interacting with a broad array of internal and external stakeholders, including elected officials, community leaders, state/federal agencies, and residents.