Pittsboro, NC – The Town of Pittsboro expresses its sincere appreciation, farewell, and congratulations to Communications and Emergency Management Director Colby Sawyer, who left the organization last month to pursue a new professional opportunity that will bring him closer to his long-term goals. Colby’s next role will be as County Manager for Pender County, a rapidly growing county in coastal North Carolina.
Since joining the Town in April 2022, Colby has made a lasting impact on Pittsboro’s communications efforts, emergency response and mitigation strategies, and the development of key initiatives and services. Through his innovation, collaborative spirit, and devotion to public service, he helped guide the Town toward a stronger and more resilient future.
“Pittsboro has built a high-performing organization that’s gaining attention well beyond our town limits,” said Mayor Kyle Shipp. “Colby’s appointment reflects his knowledge and expertise, and the strength and readiness of our team. We’re fortunate to have capable staff prepared to step into his role and keep our progress moving forward.”
Colby previously served as Public Information Officer and Emergency Management Specialist before being promoted to Communications and Emergency Management Director in September 2024. During his tenure, he helped shape the Town’s emergency planning and mitigation efforts, securing millions in connectivity and transportation, utilities, economic development, community and historic preservation, hazard mitigation, and resilience grant funding. He also contributed significantly to additional regional projects that expanded infrastructure and emergency service capacity.
Colby strengthened community and disaster readiness through planning, training, preparing, and providing scenario-based exercises and live drills aligned with state and federal standards. His leadership as Town Emergency Operations Center Director and Incident Commander during severe weather, special events, and civil demonstrations, has advanced coordinated operations across departments and partner agencies. Additionally, he designed, developed, and delivered every iteration of PBO-101, the Town’s flagship community engagement and education program. He received multiple awards for service to the Town, including being named in the “40 Under 40” list by the International Association of Emergency Managers in 2024.
“We’re incredibly proud of Colby’s accomplishments,” said Town Manager Jonathan Franklin. “His work has elevated our emergency planning, strengthened our communications, and helped position Pittsboro for continued success. Collaborating with Colby’s talent and dedication has been a privilege. I look forward to following his success.”
Of his departure, Colby stated, “I am very thankful to the Board, staff, and the community in Pittsboro for placing trust in me. It has been an honor to work alongside the Board, staff, residents, business owners, and stakeholders who are already working daily to make Pittsboro the wonderful place that it is. My time in Pittsboro has been the highlight of my professional career and personal life, and though I am excited for this new opportunity, I will forever cherish the time I spent in the Circle City.”