City of Durham, NC Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

City of Durham, NC has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to public service, City of Durham, NC focuses on delivering essential services and fostering community well-being through strategic leadership and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at City of Durham, NC

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kenneth Pennoyer
  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance - Sheilah Faucette
  • Chief of Staff - Karmisha Wallace
  • Interim Chief Information Officer & Director, Information Technology - Marcia Richardson
  • Chief Information Officer & Director, Technology Solutions - Richard Barbee
  • Chief Information Officer, Temporary Cissp - Gemma Dyson
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Aaron Miley
  • Honorary Member - Robert Smith
  • Kenneth Pennoyer - Chief Financial Officer

    Kenneth Pennoyer, the Chief Financial Officer at City of Durham, NC, directs the financial operations and fiscal strategy for the government entity. Overseeing all aspects of budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Pennoyer ensures the sound management of public funds. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to align financial objectives with the city's service delivery goals. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, Kenneth Pennoyer supports transparency and accountability in municipal finance. The Chief Financial Officer's purview extends to managing investments, debt, and revenue streams, critical for sustaining city services and infrastructure projects across North Carolina. Pennoyer's financial acumen underpins the city's ability to fund essential public services and pursue long-term economic stability.

    Sheilah Faucette - Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance

    Sheilah Faucette, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance at City of Durham, NC, supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing the city's fiscal health and financial operations. Faucette assists in the development and execution of financial strategies, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting across North Carolina. This role involves overseeing specific financial functions and ensuring compliance with fiscal policies and regulations. By collaborating with the Finance department, Sheilah Faucette contributes to the sound management of public resources. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include analyzing financial data and supporting departmental budget management. Faucette's efforts are integral to maintaining the financial stability and operational capacity of the city.

    Karmisha Wallace - Chief of Staff

    Karmisha Wallace, the Chief of Staff at City of Durham, NC, manages strategic initiatives and operational coordination for the executive leadership. Wallace facilitates communication and collaboration across various city departments, ensuring alignment with the overarching mission. This position involves advising leadership on policy matters and driving the execution of key projects. By streamlining internal processes and optimizing workflow, Karmisha Wallace enhances the efficiency of city governance. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects and acting as a liaison between the executive office and other stakeholders. Wallace's strategic oversight ensures that the city's operational priorities are effectively implemented, contributing to the delivery of vital public services throughout Durham, North Carolina.

    Marcia Richardson - Interim Chief Information Officer & Director, Information Technology

    Marcia Richardson, the Interim Chief Information Officer & Director, Information Technology at City of Durham, NC, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the city's technology infrastructure. Richardson oversees the development and implementation of IT policies, ensuring the security and reliability of all digital systems. This role involves managing technology solutions that support government operations and enhance public service delivery across North Carolina. By guiding the Information Technology department, Marcia Richardson focuses on leveraging technology to improve efficiency and citizen engagement. The Interim Chief Information Officer's mandate includes overseeing data management, network operations, and cybersecurity initiatives. Richardson's leadership ensures that the city's technological resources effectively support its mission and operational needs.

    Richard Barbee - Chief Information Officer & Director, Technology Solutions

    Richard Barbee, the Chief Information Officer & Director, Technology Solutions at City of Durham, NC, drives the strategic vision for technology adoption and innovation across the municipality. Barbee is responsible for identifying and implementing cutting-edge technology solutions that enhance government efficiency and citizen services throughout North Carolina. This leadership position involves overseeing the integration of new systems and ensuring the robust performance of existing technological infrastructure. By directing the Technology Solutions department, Richard Barbee focuses on optimizing digital platforms to support city operations. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing IT projects, cybersecurity frameworks, and data governance. Barbee's strategic guidance ensures that technology effectively supports the city's mission and operational objectives.

    Gemma Dyson - Chief Information Officer, Temporary Cissp

    Gemma Dyson, the Chief Information Officer, Temporary Cissp at City of Durham, NC, provides critical leadership in managing the city's information technology landscape. Dyson focuses on ensuring the security and integrity of digital assets and systems, leveraging expertise in cybersecurity protocols. This role involves overseeing the implementation of temporary IT solutions and strategic planning for future technology needs across North Carolina. By directing the Information Technology function, Gemma Dyson aims to enhance operational resilience and data protection. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT infrastructure projects and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Dyson's temporary leadership ensures continuity and strategic advancement in the city's technology operations.

    Aaron Miley - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Aaron Miley, the Chief Human Resources Officer at City of Durham, NC, leads the strategic direction and operational management of human capital initiatives for the city government. Miley oversees all aspects of workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee relations, and compensation and benefits programs across North Carolina. This critical role involves fostering a positive and productive work environment, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and developing policies that support employee growth and retention. By directing the Human Resources department, Aaron Miley focuses on attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce essential for delivering public services. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities include implementing HR best practices and driving organizational development. Miley's leadership ensures that the city has the human resources necessary to achieve its strategic objectives.

    Robert Smith - Honorary Member

    Robert Smith, the Honorary Member at City of Durham, NC, provides distinguished counsel and advisory support, contributing valuable insights to the organization's strategic direction. Smith's involvement signifies a commitment to the city's mission and its ongoing development within North Carolina. This position, while not involving direct operational management, offers a unique perspective derived from extensive experience. By engaging with leadership, Robert Smith helps to foster a culture of continuous improvement and strategic foresight. The Honorary Member's role is to offer guidance and support, enhancing the organization's capacity for effective governance and public service. Smith's contributions are recognized for their impact on the city's long-term vision and operational excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding City of Durham, NC Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads City of Durham, NC?
    City of Durham, NC is led by Kenneth Pennoyer (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Sheilah Faucette (Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance) and Karmisha Wallace (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of City of Durham, NC’s executive team?
    The executive team of City of Durham, NC includes leaders such as Kenneth Pennoyer (Chief Financial Officer), Sheilah Faucette (Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance), Karmisha Wallace (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does City of Durham, NC have?
    City of Durham, NC has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in City of Durham, NC’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of City of Durham, NC includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Finance, Chief of Staff, Interim Chief Information Officer & Director, Information Technology, Chief Information Officer & Director, Technology Solutions.