(ROANOKE COUNTY, VA - February 1, 2022) Roanoke County Administrator Richard L. Caywood, P.E. is pleased to announce the appointment of Rebecca E. Owens as Deputy County Administrator and Doug M. Blount as Assistant County Administrator. The appointments are effective today.
“Rebecca and Doug each bring unique skill sets to our organization and share a commitment to serving our community,” said Caywood. “Their experience and strong leadership skills will further guide the strategic direction of our organization. I look forward to their contributions as we look to the future.”
In her new role as Deputy County Administrator, Owens will have overall responsibility for the County’s financial operations. Her management responsibilities will include Police; Fire & Rescue; Social Services; Finance & Management Services; Communications & Information Technology; Real Estate Valuation; and Internal Audit. Additionally, she will serve as the liaison to the Commissioner of the Revenue, Treasurer, Sheriff, Commonwealth’s Attorney, and Clerk of the Circuit Court.
“I am happy about this opportunity to further serve Roanoke County,” said Owens. “Through continued collaboration with our experienced team, I believe we will build upon what we have accomplished for our citizens.”
Owens was appointed Assistant County Administrator in 2019. She previously served as Roanoke County’s Director of Finance since 2003 where she was responsible for oversight of
Accounting, Purchasing, Payroll, Risk Management, Debt Management, Grant Management, and Financial Systems. Prior to coming to Roanoke County in 2000, Owens worked for the City of Salem in the Finance Department.
Owens holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Roanoke College and a Master of Business Administration degree from Averett University. She is professionally active as a member of the Government Finance Officers’ Association, Virginia Government Finance Officers’ Association, Virginia Local Government Management Association, and International City/County Management Association. Owens has more than 29 years of experience in local government. She resides in Roanoke County.
Blount began his service with Roanoke County in 2011. He has served as the County’s Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and General Services departments. In his new role as Assistant County Administrator, Blount will have overall responsibility for the County’s capital program delivery. His management responsibilities will include Economic Development; Parks, Recreation & Tourism; General Services; Development Services; Libraries; and Planning.
Additionally, he will serve as the liaison for the Elections Office.
“I am delighted to bring my experience to the executive team,” said Blount. “I have a passion for the region and improving its livability. I look forward to working with departments on the County’s initiatives to benefit our citizens, visitors and businesses.”
Blount is a native of Roanoke County and has more than 26 years of experience in local government. Prior to joining Roanoke County, he worked for 15 years at the Prince William County Park Authority in various leadership roles.
Mr. Blount holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from East Tennessee State University. He and his wife Melissa have been married for 26 years and reside in Roanoke County. They have a daughter at Virginia Tech and a son at Glenvar High School.
>> Learn more about Deputy County Administrator Rebecca Owens.
>> Learn more about Assistant County Administrator Doug Blount.