POWHATAN, VA – Edward N. (“Ned”) Smither will assume the position of County Administrator for Powhatan County on August 1, 2020.
Smither brings over 16 years of local government experience, the last three of which were as the Director of Finance in Henrico County, Virginia. As Henrico’s Director of Finance, Smither was responsible for the management and supervision of the divisions of Real Estate Assessment, Management and Budget, Accounting, Purchasing, and Risk Management. In his role as Director of Finance, he also managed the roles of the Commissioner of Revenue and the Treasurer for Henrico. Prior to his time at Henrico, Mr. Smither provided financial advisory banking services to many Counties within the Commonwealth, assisting these Counties with the development of comprehensive ten year financial plans designed to provide the framework for future operating and capital improvement budget planning.
Smither earned his undergraduate degree and his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Richmond. Smither currently serves as the Director of the VML/VACO Finance Board and as Chairman of the Lewistown Commerce Center Community Development Authority.
“I have full faith that Mr. Smither’s leadership during these most trying of times, will help us emerge as a better and stronger Powhatan. Mr. Smither’s comprehensive financial experience will be especially valuable as we continue to respond to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, his work in financial planning will help us strengthen our long-term planning efforts, to better anticipate and plan for Powhatan’s needs further into the future.” stated David Williams, Chairman of the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors.
“I am humbled and honored to join the team at Powhatan County. The energy and vision of the Board of Supervisors is very exciting and I am looking forward to working with the Supervisors, County and School Board staff, and the proud citizens and business owners of Powhatan County” commented Mr. Smither.
Bret Schardein, who has served as Interim County Administrator since January, returns to his role of Assistant County Administrator.