County finds new manager already in the county

ASHEBORO – On Wednesday, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners named Zeb Holden the new County Manager, replacing the retired Hal Johnson.

Holden has been the City Manager of Archdale since 2016 and has over 19 years of local government experience.

He was chosen from a competitive pool of candidates consisting of 37 applicants from eight states. Holden won out “due to a combination of extensive local government experience, leadership ability, and deep community ties,” the county said. Chairman Darrell Frye said of Holden’s selection, “With this being such a critical time in our county’s history, the board fully recognized the magnitude of this hire, and we are confident and excited for what Randolph County’s future holds. Mr. Holden brings a wealth of experience not only in economic development but also in city planning and business administration. We are grateful that despite the many quality applicants we received, the most qualified candidate was already right here in Randolph County.” 

Holden obtained his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Elon University and graduate degree in Geography/City Planning from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He resides in Archdale with his wife Stacy, a teacher at Hopewell Elementary School, and two children, Nate and Bryn.

Holden’s first day on the job will be determined in accordance with his fulfillment of duties to the City of Archdale. The county plans to hold a more formal introduction of Holden at that time. 

“The board wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Mayor Dorsett and the Archdale City Council for their cooperation and understanding throughout this process,” Frye said. “We also wish to thank former County Manager Hal Johnson for his commitment to this County and leaving us in a great position primed for continued success in the hands of our new manager.” 

The County Manager is appointed and serves at the pleasure of the Randolph County Board of Commissioners. Duties of the manager include overseeing county departments, representing the County, and overseeing programs and operations regarding the policies, ordinances and directives adopted by the Board of County Commissioners. The County Manager is also responsible for recommending an annual county budget and providing all other management services necessary to assure efficient and effective operation of Randolph County government. 

Q&A with Zeb Holden:

Holden responded to questions from Randolph Hub concerning his new position.

1. What are your feelings about being named Randolph County manager, replacing Hal Johnson?

I have a lot of respect for Hal and his accomplishments while working for Randolph County. It’s an honor to be named as his successor, especially in such a transformational time in our county's history. I am truly excited about the opportunity and am humbled by the Commissioners’ offer to join their team.

2. How has your time with Archdale prepared you for your new position?

I’ve been fortunate to work with many smart and talented people during my 18 years in Archdale. It was a blessing to work in a community that was incredibly supportive of me and my family. In 2016, I was thrust into the Manager’s role in Archdale and had to learn on the fly. Service contracts, public utilities, staff management, economic development, etc. These experiences, coupled with the friendships and connections I’ve made during this time, will benefit me greatly in this new role.

3. Besides what's already on the plate, do you have other objectives for the future of Randolph County?

With the tremendous growth taking place in many parts of the county, maintaining a high level of service for our citizens is a primary goal. This starts with recruiting and retaining the very best staff possible.

4. Please list your close family members and a little about what they do.

My wife Stacy and I have two children. Stacy has worked nearly 20 years in public education, mostly with the Randolph County School System. Our son and daughter both attend Trinity High School.