After a nationwide search, Wake County Manager David Ellis today announced that he has hired Ashley Jacobs as Chief Information and Innovation Officer. Jacobs brings two decades of county government leadership experience to the position, as well as a strong understanding of how to build lasting community partnerships.
“I selected Ashley, because she brings the right combination of experience, skills and creative thinking to this important role in the County Manager’s Office,” said Manager Ellis. “Ashley knows how to bring people together to achieve a common goal, and that’s exactly what we need as we look to tackle the challenges our community faces in new and impactful ways.”
Jacobs’ first day in her new position will be June 14. She will oversee the county’s vast technology infrastructure, and lead efforts to find new and innovative ways to solve problems and enhance services across the organization.
Wake County’s reputation of excellence first attracted Jacobs to the position – one she describes as both “intriguing” and “challenging.” She recognizes the vital role technology and new operational tactics have played in enabling local governments to continue serving the public safely throughout the pandemic.
“I look forward to applying these lessons learned and exploring even more ways to be adaptive to ensure outstanding service delivery for Wake County,” said Jacobs. “I’m thrilled to join this talented and dynamic team, and I feel fortunate for this opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of more than one million residents.”
Prior to joining Wake County, Jacobs served as County Administrator for Beaufort County, S.C., where she oversaw 1,300 employees, developed the annual budget, and successfully implemented new policies and programs.
Previously, she served as:
- Assistant County Administrator for Aiken County, S.C.;
- Executive Director of the Greater Lake City Community Development Office / Lake City Creative Alliance in Lake City, S.C.;
- Deputy County Administrator for Dorchester County, S.C.; and
- Assistant County Manager for Richland County, S.C.
Jacobs holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Clemson University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Carolina. She actively participates in a number of organizations, including the International City/County Management Association and the South Carolina State Firefighters Foundation.
