The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is looking for a strong leader and dedicated public servant to lead the nation’s fourth largest and fastest-growing county. Today marks the start of a nationwide recruitment to find a successor to County Manager Joy Rich, who plans to retire in April.
“Maricopa County is one of the nation’s most innovative governments and one of state’s largest employers and, the reality is, this is like losing our CEO,” said Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4. “It’s also an incredible opportunity for a skilled leader with a servant’s heart who wants to live and work in the fastest-growing region in the United States. My colleagues and I understand hiring the next Maricopa County Manager is one of the most consequential decisions we’ll make, and we look forward to the process.”
The Maricopa County Manager is responsible for more than 40 county departments and works to implement the vision of the elected Board of Supervisors, which includes being responsible and efficient with county tax dollars, creating safe and healthy communities, and improving quality of life for all residents through county programs and services.
The Board of Supervisors will accept applications through February 13, 2023. Leaders interested in applying can view all the details in the executive recruitment brochure.
At a public meeting on January 11, board members praised Rich, a long-time public servant who in 2016 became the first female county manager in Maricopa County’s 150-year history.
“It’s impossible to overstate Joy’s contribution to this organization and our entire community, especially these last few years as we’ve navigated a global pandemic,” said Hickman. “As county manager, Joy’s focus has always been: how do we help residents, and how do we support our staff in doing so? She has an unrelenting commitment to service and an unwavering devotion to doing what’s right. I respect Joy immensely and wish her nothing but the best in her retirement.”
The county manager reports directly to the Board of Supervisors. As such, board members will review applications and choose the candidates they want to interview. All interviews will be conducted privately, but the appointment of a new county manager will happen during a public meeting.