Richmond City Council has confirmed Odie Donald II as the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the City of Richmond. The confirmation, announced on June 9, follows Mayor Danny Avula’s nomination of Donald on June 6, after a five-month national search initiated shortly after Avula assumed office in January.
Mayor Avula expressed his satisfaction with the council’s decision, stating, “I am absolutely thrilled with this evening’s City Council confirmation of my nominee for Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Odie Donald II. With his confirmation, Richmond gains a talented and experienced public administrator whose life story reflects our city’s highest aspirations.”
Donald currently serves as Chief of Staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and brings nearly two decades of experience in municipal government. He has held significant roles across Georgia and has been involved in leading high-impact organizations and programs at local, state, and federal levels.
Upon his confirmation, Donald stated, “I’m honored by the Council’s confirmation, and deeply grateful to Mayor Avula for the opportunity to serve. From day one, we’ll hit the ground running – focused on building a thriving City Hall that supports the community and delivers for Richmond’s families.”
Richmond City Council President Newbille welcomed Donald’s appointment: “Richmond City Council looks forward to continuing the important work of Richmond residents and welcomes Mr. Donald to our city to serve as its Chief Administrative Officer.”
U.S. Senator Tim Kaine also commented on the appointment: “Richmond is a vibrant, forward-moving city and I’m proud to support the introduction of a leader prepared to meet this moment.”
Donald has previously served as City Administrator for South Fulton and Augusta-Richmond County. His accomplishments include improving bond ratings in Augusta and eliminating a $25 million deficit in South Fulton.
Brian Anderson from ChamberRVA highlighted Donald’s potential impact: “Mr. Donald’s leadership and collaborative spirit will be key to strengthening the partnership between the City and the business community.”
Tanya González, a Richmond resident, praised Donald’s leadership experience: “In a time of rapid changes… it’s reassuring to see someone with steady proven leadership in multiple municipal governments.”
Rev. Donté McCutchen expressed confidence in Donald’s alignment with city values: “I trust he is well aligned with the values and vision we voted for in Mayor Avula.”
Robert Bobb from Robert Bobb Group noted the national interest in Richmond’s CAO position as indicative of its appeal: “The nomination of Mr. Donald reflects a strong match between the City’s needs and a proven thoughtful leader who understands what it takes to deliver results.”
Under Richmond’s Charter, the CAO holds significant authority over city operations including personnel decisions and financial activities. The council approved an annual salary of $365,000 for Donald who will start his role on July 9. Sharon Ebert will serve as Acting CAO until then.
