NORTHAMPTON — After nearly a decade as town administrator in Williamsburg, Charlene Nardi will be leaving the position to become Northampton’s finance director.
Mayor David J. Narkewicz announced Friday that he has appointed Nardi to the position held by Susan Wright. Wright, who has worked for the city for 17 years, retires June 29.
Narkewicz said in a statement that he is excited to welcome Nardi to the role. Her appointment must be confirmed by the City Council, which on April 1 will be asked to make a committee referral.
Nardi wrote in an email Monday that she is excited about the appointment.
“This is a wonderful opportunity and it will be a privilege to join the city of Northampton’s team of professionals,” Nardi said.
She added that it has been an honor to serve the Williamsburg Select Board, the town’s residents and working alongside talented and dedicated officials.
Nardi would start May 24 so a transition can occur.
“With over 23 years of experience in municipal government, including the last 10 years as Williamsburg town administrator, Charlene will bring a wealth of administrative, budgetary, and leadership skills to our city’s financial management team,” Narkewicz said.
The finance director manages the day-to-day financial operations of the city, including overseeing its three main financial departments, the offices of the assessor, auditor and treasurer/collector. Responsibilities also include working with the mayor to create the city’s annual operating budget and capital improvement program as outlined in the city’s charter.
During the pandemic, Wright has led the city’s efforts to secure reimbursements and additional funding sources for the coronavirus response from the state and federal governments.
Prior to serving as Williamsburg town administrator beginning in 2011, Nardi served four years as Chesterfield’s town administrator. Nardi’s experience also includes 10 years as Williamsburg’s town clerk and being an elected member of the School Committee in Williamsburg. Nardi has a bachelor of science degree in business from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.
