Roanoke will have two Assistant City Managers for first time in its history

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — On Monday, March 20th, Roanoke City Council announced the names of two new Assistant City Managers.

Both Angie O’Brien and Sam Roman will report to the City Manager, Bob Cowell. This is the first time the Star City will have Co-Assistant City Managers.

O’Brien has worked for the City of Roanoke for more than 20 years, having roles in the Department of Social Services and in the City Manager’s Office. O’Brien currently supports a variety of Boards and Commissions including the Gun Violence Prevention Commission, the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board, and the Youth Services Board. She coordinates the City’s CARES Act and ARPA COVID relief efforts. O’Brien’s love for the region is evident, as she has studied at Virginia Tech, Emory & Henry College, and Hollins University, earning various certificates and degrees.

“I am beyond thrilled to have been selected to assist the City Manager in the day-to-day operations of our community development programs and strategic initiatives. I am grateful to be able to continue to serve the City of Roanoke and all its residents in this new role,” said O’Brien, as she is eager to start this role immediately.

(Photo courtesy: City of Roanoke)

Cowell’s request to have two assistants was approved at Monday’s meeting, where Roman was confirmed to work alongside O’Brien. Roman, a Marine Corps veteran, has served more than 25 years with the Roanoke Police Department, earning his current role as Chief of Police. Roman has served on area Boards including Total Action for Progress, the Community Services Board, Region 1, and the Roanoke Rescue Mission.

“I look forward to my new role within City leadership as I continue to work with our community and the dedicated team members of Roanoke,” said Roman. He will start this position in July, after a new Chief of Police is named.

(Photo courtesy: City of Roanoke)