Durham County Has a New but Familiar Administrative Leader

Claudia Hager, who had been serving as interim manager of Durham County after the unexplained departure of Kimberly Sowell, now has the job on a more permanent basis.

“We are filled with joy,” said Nida Allam, chair of the Durham Board of County Commissions, in a news release. “During her outstanding tenure with Durham County, Claudia Hager has twice stepped in to bridge the leadership gap when she’s called on. She is a talented, seasoned public administrator who will continue to lead Durham County government to the next level!”

Hager also served as interim county manager between May 2021 and March 2022. She also has been deputy county manager, overseeing finance, grants administration, and budget and management services.

“I was honored and humbled when the county commissioners asked me to consider stepping in permanently as county manager and provide continuity in leadership during this period,” Hager said. “I want to thank them for entrusting me with this opportunity to help lead this wonderful organization. I am grateful to my 2,200 colleagues, the employees of this great organization, who keep this organization strong.”

Hager will be sworn in during the board’s next regular meeting on Nov. 12.

Sowell tendered her resignation last week after six weeks on paid leave. Why Sowell departed remains a mystery.

Contact Southpoint Access Editor and Publisher Wes Platt at southpointaccessnews@gmail.com or 407-616-1346.