The Town of Franklin is excited to announce that Sarah Bishop has been named as the Assistant Town Manager and Finance Director effective July 1.
“With her proven abilities in municipal leadership and financial stewardship, Sarah brings 10 + years of experience in public sector budgeting, strategic planning, and community engagement. In this dual role, she will continue to oversee the Town’s financial operations, guide long-term fiscal strategy, supervise the Planning and Code Enforcement staff, and support the Town Council and leadership team in advancing initiatives that strengthen and grow the Town,” said Town Manager Amie Owens.
One key area in which Sarah will be instrumental is serving as the administrative contact related to Main Street programming. She will work closely with Main Street Franklin, Inc. and the Franklin Downtown Merchants Association to ensure that economic development goals and objectives are developed and met, including the ultimate re-entry into the North Carolina Main Street Program.
Sarah holds certifications from the North Carolina Government Finance Officers Association (NCGFOA) and the North Carolina Local Government Budget Association (NCLGBA). She is also a graduate of the Municipal and County Administration program through the UNC School of Government.
Her academic background includes an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Southwestern Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Leadership from Capella University. Bishop has been instrumental in all aspects of the Town’s fiscal policy since taking the role of Finance Director in 2020.
Many smaller municipalities often utilize the finance director in this capacity due to the fact that every project, purchase and discussion has a financial component. The town has not had an assistant town manager since 2014.
“I am incredibly excited to step into the role of assistant town manager and finance director for the Town of Franklin,” said Bishop. “Having the opportunity to serve this community in an expanded role is an honor, and I look forward to working alongside such an incredible team to ensure our town’s continued growth and financial stability.”
Mayor Stacy Guffey added, “Sarah has earned the trust and respect of our staff, Council, and community through years of dedicated service. This promotion recognizes her leadership and gives the Town additional capacity to serve residents and keep important projects moving forward. I look forward to continuing to work with Sarah as we build on the progress we’re making in Franklin.”
As a lifelong resident of Franklin and a graduate of Franklin High School, Sarah takes great pride in serving her home community. She and her husband, Mitchell, are currently raising their three children here.