City of Raleigh Names Niki Jones as New Assistant City Manager

Raleigh, NC — The City of Raleigh is announcing the appointment of Niki Jones, AICP, as its newest Assistant City Manager. Jones, who currently serves as the Interim Manager for the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government in Georgia, will officially begin his role on January 21, 2025.

This appointment marks a homecoming for Jones, who previously served as the Assistant Director of Raleigh’s Housing and Neighborhoods Department from 2016 to 2020. Since then, he has advanced his career, first as Planning Director for the Town of Wendell and later joining the Athens-Clarke County government, where he was promoted to Deputy Manager in 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome Niki back to the City of Raleigh,” said City Manager Marchell Adams-David. “His extensive experience in housing, land use, and community engagement will be instrumental in advancing Raleigh’s strategic initiatives, particularly as we navigate critical growth and development opportunities.”

Throughout his career, Jones has successfully led a diverse range of projects, from neighborhood revitalization and affordable housing to parks planning and business development. He has worked extensively with small businesses, including minority- and women-owned enterprises, and has overseen key capital projects such as infrastructure improvements, broadband expansion, and airport development.

“It is an honor to return to Raleigh in this capacity,” Jones said. “This is an exciting time for the city, and I look forward to collaborating with our team to drive meaningful progress for the community.”

In his new role, Jones will oversee several City departments, including Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, Planning and Development, Emergency Communications, Communications, and Equity and Inclusion. His leadership will support Raleigh’s commitment to equity, innovation, and sustainability as the city continues to grow.

Jones’ career began with the City of Greenville, NC, where he served in various roles, including Code Enforcement Officer, Land Use Planner, Economic Development Project Manager, and Housing Administrator. His broad expertise makes him uniquely qualified to address Raleigh’s complex challenges and opportunities.

Jones holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning and a Master of Public Administration, both from East Carolina University. He is also a graduate of the Public Executive Leadership Academy at UNC’s School of Government and the Certified Public Manager program at the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute.

The City of Raleigh looks forward to Niki Jones’ leadership and the positive impact his extensive experience will have on the city and its residents.