Michael Talbert appointed assistant Orange County manager

Orange County Manager Frank Clifton announced the promotion of Michael S. Talbert to assistant county manager, effective Monday, Nov. 21, 2011.
Talbert has served as interim assistant Orange County manager since May 5 of this year when the previous assistant county manager, Willie Best, was out on medical leave; Best has since retired.
Talbert served in a dual capacity as he continued his role as deputy financial services director, a position he has held since Sept. 20, 2010. Talbert started with Orange County in December 2009 in a temporary position with Financial Services.
Talbert will assist the county manager in directing departments and programs in Orange County government. Immediate focus for Talbert will be to provide guidance during the transition of solid waste landfill services and infrastructure upgrades in the Emergency Services Department. Talbert will also provide leadership and guidance to a variety of county departments that provide either direct citizen service or internal support to departments.
Talbert has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and economics from Elon College as well as specialized training including the Public Executive Leadership Academy from the University of North Carolina School of Government.
Before joining Orange County’s leadership team, Talbert served as county manager of Polk County and finance director of Catawba County.
“Michael’s professional knowledge and experiences elsewhere in North Carolina county governments provide Orange County with a great resource,” Clifton said. “Michael has been a valuable asset to the county, especially during the last six months working double duty."
Talbert is excited about the new position: “I look forward to new challenges and working together with local elected officials with the county, towns and schools and with the Orange County management team to make a positive impact on the quality of life for the people of Orange County.”