Durham City Council Names W. Bowman Ferguson as New City Manager
DURHAM, N.C. – Durham’s Deputy City Manager, W. Bowman “Bo” Ferguson, will step into the city’s top leadership role following his appointment by the Durham City Council. Ferguson will succeed retiring City Manager Wanda Page on January 1, 2025.
Ferguson, a respected leader with nearly three decades in local government, has played a critical role in Durham’s transformation over the last decade. Since joining the city in 2013, he has led some of its most impactful initiatives, including the nationally acclaimed HEART Program in the Community Safety Department, which offers innovative emergency responses to nonviolent 911 calls.
Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams praised Ferguson’s deep connection to the city and proven leadership. “Bo Ferguson is the leader Durham needs for its future. His vision, experience, and love for this community make him the right choice to continue our progress. Bo understands how to lead with innovation and inclusivity while ensuring our values remain at the center of every decision.”
Ferguson’s achievements include successfully merging city and county fire departments to enhance efficiency, driving key infrastructure projects like the Half-Penny for Parks initiative, and onboarding new leadership in Durham’s public safety departments. His strategic focus on fiscal sustainability and cost containment has consistently strengthened city operations.
Ferguson expressed excitement about this next chapter: “It’s been a privilege to serve Durham over the past decade, a city where I’ve worked, lived, and raised my family. I’m honored to lead a community so committed to growth and inclusivity, and I look forward to building on the foundation we’ve created together.”
Before coming to Durham, Ferguson served as city manager in Hendersonville, N.C., and held leadership positions in Maryland. He has a master’s in public administration from the University of Kansas and a bachelor’s in political science from Furman University.
His appointment follows the City Council’s decision to forego a national search, which Mayor Williams says reflects Ferguson’s exceptional leadership and dedication.
Ferguson’s salary as city manager will be $297,000 annually.
About the Office of the City Manager
The Office of the City Manager oversees all city operations, ensuring the effective implementation of policies and programs set by the Durham City Council while delivering essential services to the community.