ROCKINGHAM — William “Bob” Smith has been appointed interim emergency services director following the retirement of Donna Wright.
County Manager Bryan Land said choosing Smith to head Richmond County Emergency Services until a permanent director is hired was “an easy decision.”
“Bob has been a tireless worker, has built positive relationships with our public safety community, and has shown great dedication to serving our citizens,” Land said. “He has a distinguished career of achievement and we believe he is well prepared to lead his staff and organization in the future.
“Bob will serve as interim to permit an adjustment period for the organization and for consideration by leadership for full appointment.”
Smith has been working for the county for 15 years, and served as deputy director under Wright.
“I am thrilled to have this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing my career with Richmond County,” Smith said. “It has been an honor and a pleasure to work under Donna Wright for the past 15 years. She has been an outstanding leader and mentor to both myself, and the entire staff of Richmond County Emergency Services.”
Wright retired last week after 30 years of working in the emergency field, starting as a telecommunicator with the Hamlet Police Department.
“Donna’s dedication to Richmond County was exemplary and her career was one of significant impact,” Land said. “Her legacy is that she leaves behind an Emergency Services and E911 operation; it’s facilities and staff, that stands as a best of class example to all others.”
