DK Wesley Announced As New City Manager For Asheville
Yesterday, the City of Asheville announced the appointment of DK Wesley as the new City Manager, effective January 12, 2026. The City Manager is charged with running the day-to-day operations of the City and reporting to the City Council. Wesley brings “over 25 years of progressive leadership in city and county management,” and previously served for six and a half years as the Assistant County Manager with Buncombe County. Assistant City Manager Ben Woody will serve as Interim City Manager during the transition.
“Council is excited to announce the appointment of DK Wesley to serve as our City Manager, guiding Asheville through the continuing Tropical Storm Helene recovery and leading a city of over 1200 dedicated staff. Wesley’s leadership, experience, and commitment to community will help ensure we not only rebuild stronger but continue to move forward on the many projects and initiatives that make Asheville a welcoming, vibrant, and desirable place to live. City Manager Wesley’s six and a half years with Buncombe County strengthen an important relationship with the city’s largest regional partner, as well as bringing a deep knowledge of our community, which means she can hit the ground running,” stated Mayor Esther Manheimer.
Throughout her career, Wesley has spearheaded high-impact initiatives, including financial forecast development, authentic community engagement, county-wide public safety communications consolidation, cultural and recreational expansions, innovative health and safety programs, strategic planning, and major capital projects. She has provided executive leadership during critical events such as the 2017 100-year flood, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Tropical Storms Fred and Helene.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as City Manager for Asheville,” Wesley said. “I look forward to supporting the Mayor and City Council, investing in a strong organizational culture, and partnering with the community to build a thriving, resilient, and inclusive future for all Asheville residents.”
Wesley holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Texas and is a Credentialed Manager with International City/County Management Association (ICMA). In 2024, Wesley was honored for her professionalism and impact as a Distinguished Alumni by UCA.
