Greenwood Bids Farewell to Assistant City Manager, Ryan Thomas, After Five Years
The community of Greenwood is preparing to say goodbye to a beloved leader, as Assistant City Manager Ryan Thomas gets ready to leave his role for a new opportunity in Seneca. Ryan Thomas, who joined the City of Greenwood’s administrative team in February 2019, will be stepping into a similar role in Seneca starting next week.
An Unexpected Journey
When Thomas first joined the Greenwood team, he was fresh from Taylors but originally hails from Indianapolis. He began his tenure in Greenwood just months after Julie Wilkie assumed the role of city manager, marking a period of significant transition. “I knew it was going to be a challenge,” Thomas reflected. “But just through that interview process, I sort of felt a good rapport with Julie and the whole community.”
Navigating Through Challenges
Only a year into his service, the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and Thomas, together with Wilkie, faced unique administrative hurdles. They had to manage federal funds and address local concerns, all while dealing with day-to-day municipal responsibilities. Despite these challenges, Thomas found a silver lining. “Even if you have great ideas and you want to get them accomplished tomorrow, that’s very difficult to do,” he said. “Add COVID on top of that.”
One notable achievement during his tenure was his work with the Public Works department. By collaborating with Director Erek Leary, they introduced live virtual mapping for garbage collection routes. This innovation was particularly valuable during a driver shortage and is expected to be beneficial even when fully staffed.
Development and Surprises
Thomas also worked on exciting projects like the park on Foundry Road. However, the project faced an unexpected pause when they discovered contamination from fuel leakages. “Working on these projects isn’t a linear process,” Thomas explained. “There are starts and stops, and surprises can come in all forms. It was always a good learning opportunity, even if it was frustrating at the time.”
Valuable Lessons and Friendships
Throughout his five years, Thomas emphasized the importance of learning. “You can do this job for 20 years and still be learning,” he said. He has built strong relationships and gained invaluable experience, especially through events like the S.C. Festival of Discovery. City Manager Julie Wilkie often joked that the festival, with its daily challenges, was the best team-building exercise available.
Thomas’s departure is bittersweet. He expresses immense gratitude for his colleagues, and notably Wilkie, who he referred to as the best boss he’s ever had. “Wednesday will be my last day in Greenwood, but I am definitely looking forward to learning and collaborating with a whole new team in Seneca,” he shared.
A Community’s Loss, Another’s Gain
Wilkie acknowledged the impact of Thomas’s departure. “Our loss is certainly Seneca’s gain,” she remarked. “I have no doubt that he will go on to have a lengthy and prosperous career in local government.” Draper Carlile, who was hired as a second assistant city manager in 2022, praised Thomas as a great colleague and friend. “He’s left big shoes to fill. I wish him only the best as he begins the next stage of his career,” Carlile added.
Despite cloudy skies and a slight chance of rain showers, the weather in Greenwood on the day of Thomas’s departure seems to reflect the community’s mood – a mix of optimism and a touch of melancholy. High temperatures will reach 81°F with gentle ENE winds, while the evening low is expected to be around 63°F.
As Ryan Thomas moves on to new horizons, Greenwood will always hold memories of his dedication, innovation, and the deep friendships he’s fostered. Here’s to a bright future for both Thomas and the community he leaves behind.
