New Hanover taps former bank CFO to lead county finance department

By Jerrell C. Esser Last updated May 23, 2022

Eric Credle will take over as the county’s new chief financial officer on June 14, according to a county statement. (Courtesy picture)

NEW HANOVER COUNTY — Following the promoting Lisa Wurtzbacher to deputy county manager, New Hanover announced a new chief financial officer to take the reins. Eric Credle will start June 14, according to a county statement.

Credle, who grew up in Wilmington and graduated from Wake Forest University in 1990, has more than 30 years of experience in the financial industry in North Carolina.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to return to a place I love and serve the community that has helped shape me,” Credle said in a press release.

“Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and valuable experience to our organization that we believe will help us continue to be fiscally responsible and good stewards for our citizens,” added New County Executive Chris Coudriet. Hanover.

Credle spent 24 years working as a chief financial officer for First Bank in Southern Pines. From 1997 to 2021, Credle helped grow the company from $375 million in assets across 33 locations to $10 billion in 122 branches before he retired last November. The statement said Credle is proficient in annual financial reporting, budgeting, mergers and acquisitions, investor relations and taxes.

He was also a member of the Rotary club and worked for voluntary organizations in Southern Pines during his career.

“While his previous career was focused on the private sector, Eric is used to being involved in many civic organizations with a passion for helping others in his community,” Coudriet said in the statement. “Those are traits we look for here in New Hanover County.”

Credle will oversee the management and operation of the County Finance Department. He will play a critical role in developing the county budget, preparing the comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR), as well as managing procurement, collections, debt management and payroll.

Do you have any advice or comments? Email info@portcitydaily.com

Want to know more about PCD? Subscribe now then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wireand get titles delivered to your inbox every morning.