CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (April 22, 2025) — The Carteret County Board of Commissioners unanimously appointed Sharon Griffin as County Manager following a closed session at its regular meeting on Monday. Griffin, who has served as interim County Manager since January 2025 and as County Attorney for more than a year, is now transitioning into the County Manager role. She will also retain her appointment as County Attorney, utilizing and overseeing contract assistance as needed to protect the County's legal interests.
"I am thrilled and honored to be selected as the next County Manager of Carteret County," Griffin said. "I am grateful to the Board for this opportunity and plan to use my experience in both the public and private sectors to enhance efficiency and transparency for our residents. Local government has always been my passion, and I look forward to leading Carteret County into its next great chapter.”
Griffin addressed Commissioners, County employees, and residents after the vote, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and service. "Having worked closely with this team and community for over a year, I'm eager to build on that foundation," Griffin said. "We will continue collaborating with staff and residents to advance our shared priorities for Carteret County, with a strong commitment to providing excellent customer service and responsiveness to the needs of our community."
As County Manager, Griffin will oversee all County departments and agencies serving approximately 70,000 residents and implement board-directed initiatives. She also assumes statutory duties as budget officer, managing funding for more than 20 departments.
Griffin brings extensive local government experience, including four years as Onslow County Manager and more than two years as its deputy manager. During her tenure in Onslow, she managed a $324 million budget and 1,300 employees, navigated hurricane recovery efforts, and strengthened the County’s financial reserves. Her background also includes roles with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and private legal practice.
Griffin’s educational background includes earning her Juris Doctorate magna cum laude from the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University. She also holds a Master of Arts in Communication from Radford University and a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with honors from North Carolina State University. Additionally, Griffin is a graduate of the UNC School of Government’s program in Municipal & County Administration and the Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia. She is licensed to practice law in North Carolina and is a certified North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission Superior Court Mediator.
Departments are currently submitting fiscal year 2025–26 requests, as Griffin continues to lead the County through its budget planning period. The board will adopt a final budget by July 1. "Having worked closely with County departments on budget priorities during my time as interim County Manager, I understand the challenges and opportunities we face," Griffin told commissioners. "This transition allows us to maintain continuity as we finalize a fiscally responsible plan for the coming year.”
Board Chairman Chris Chadwick praised the selection. "Sharon is the absolute best candidate for the job," Chadwick said. "Her leadership will bring fresh perspectives and results-driven solutions to Carteret County at a pivotal time.”
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