Tom Foley, Albemarle’s assistant county executive, has been hired to replace retiring Robert W. Tucker Jr. as Albemarle’s top executive.
Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Ann H. Mallek made the announcement at Wednesday’s meeting, noting Foley’s “exceptional performance and leadership.”
Tucker’s last day is Dec. 31. Foley will take over Jan. 1.
Foley used the platform to thank the board for its “vote of confidence,” in addition to thanking Tucker for supporting him and providing the county strong leadership.
Foley has 21 years of local government experience, including 19 as a county administrator or assistant county executive. He’s spent 11 years as Albemarle’s assistant county executive, where he has supervised all county functions except human services.
Foley had also served eight years as an administrator in two other Virginia counties.
Foley's annual salary will be $165,000, plus benefits, with a vehicle allowance of $6,000, as detailed in a resolution approved by supervisors.
During his tenure as an assistant county executive, Foley has spearheaded a five-year financial planning process, in addition to improving the county’s strategic planning and performance management, according to county spokeswoman Lee Catlin.
Foley has also led the replacement of the county’s automated financial management system and the consolidation of three departments into the community development department.
The county also credits Foley with the establishment of “good working relationships with regional partners,” including Charlottesville and the University of Virginia.
In a prepared statement, Mallek said Foley will provide stability and continuity of leadership during challenging economic times, and she said his appointment allows for a seamless transition.
Supervisors said the decision to hire Foley was made after a thorough evaluation of their options. However, the board declined to conduct an external search, because the members are familiar with Foley and confident in his ability to serve the county well.
Supervisor Kenneth C. Boyd estimated that an external search would have cost $30,000 to $50,000, perhaps more. However, Boyd noted that supervisors declined to conduct an external search not to save money but because of their confidence that Foley is best suited for the job.
Tucker, 62, has served the county for nearly 37 years, including the past 20 years as its executive.
Gary O’Connell, Charlottesville’s former city manager, also resigned his post just months ago, to take the director’s job at the Albemarle County Service Authority. A search for his replacement is under way.
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