Hickory Assistant City Manager Rick Beasley announces retirement
After 32 years of dedicated service in local government, Assistant City Manager Rick Beasley will retire from the City of Hickory on Feb. 28.
For the past eight years, Beasley has served as Assistant City Manager for the City of Hickory, leading the Office of Business Development and driving initiatives that have strengthened Hickory’s economic foundation. The office functions as a catalyst for growth, dedicated to attracting new businesses, supporting existing enterprises, and fostering innovation to create a thriving environment for investment and job creation. Through strategic planning, collaborative partnerships, and targeted marketing, the team has advanced redevelopment projects, enhanced workforce development, and positioned Hickory as a premier destination for business and talent. By championing efforts that improve quality of life and expand economic opportunity, the Office of Business Development plays a vital role in shaping Hickory’s future.
Under his leadership, the City of Hickory reached significant milestones and completed transformational projects that will benefit the community for generations. Among his major accomplishments was the implementation of the bond program, designed to drive economic development, enhance quality of life, and attract new residents and industry. Through this program, Hickory built the Hickory Trail, a multiuse urban trail system spanning more than 11 miles across the city, and developed Trivium Corporate Center, a 378-acre Class A business park for advanced manufacturing. These projects have generated over $1.08 billion in private investment and positioned Hickory as a highly desirable location for both residents and businesses.
He also played a key role in overseeing the recent expansion and renovation of the Hickory Metro Convention Center. The upgraded facility now encompasses approximately 165,600 square feet on a single level, including 132,000 square feet of flexible, usable space for meetings and events. This features roughly 110,000 square feet of interconnected flat-floor exhibit space, complemented by additional meeting rooms and pre-function areas.
In addition, his leadership contributed to the identification and planning of the Hickory Innovation District, further advancing the city’s vision for economic growth and innovation.
Beasley has decades of experience in local government and higher education leadership. Before joining the City of Hickory, Beasley served in key management roles in several North Carolina communities, including as City Manager for Conover for 17 years (1989–2006), Town Manager of Scotland Neck (1985–1989), and Assistant City Manager in Lenoir (1982–1985). In these positions, he oversaw the administration of all city departments and worked closely with elected officials to advance community priorities.
Following his tenure in local government, Beasley transitioned to higher education, joining Appalachian State University as Senior Associate Athletics Director and later serving as Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Development Officer, where he managed fundraising and day-to-day operations. He continued his career in athletics administration at Georgia State University as Senior Associate Athletics Director for Development, overseeing all aspects of fundraising for Georgia State Athletics. After retiring and returning to Hickory, Beasley came out of retirement in November 2017 to serve as Interim Assistant City Manager for the City of Hickory and accepted a permanent role in February 2018.
Beasley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Economics and a Master of Arts with a concentration in Local Government from Appalachian State University.
“Rick has been an invaluable member of our leadership team, stepping in during a pivotal time and immediately making a lasting impact,” said City Manager Warren Wood. “Rick’s deep understanding of local government operations and ability to foster strong, collaborative relationships have advanced key initiatives and strengthened our city. We are grateful for his dedication and the legacy of progress he leaves behind. Rick has a way of making everyone around him better, and Hickory is a better place because of him.”
On behalf of the Hickory City Council, Mayor Hank Guess shared, “Hickory was truly fortunate to have Rick return to local government and share his wealth of experience with our community. We deeply appreciate his service and the positive impact he has made on Hickory’s growth and vitality.”
In retirement, Beasley looks forward to traveling with his wife, Diana, spending time with friends and family, playing golf, and cheering on his Mountaineers.
Reflecting on his career, Beasley stated, “I would like to thank the City Council, Manager, and staff for the opportunity to be part of the City of Hickory’s outstanding team. It has been a pleasure and one of my greatest honors to serve the citizens of Hickory. I’ve been lucky to have two different careers in my life, working with citizens to make their communities better and helping student-athletes have the same experience I had.”