BEAUFORT, NC – The Town of Beaufort Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce that Matt Zapp will serve as the next Town Manager for Beaufort, North Carolina. With 22 years of municipal management experience, Zapp brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the position.

Zapp has most recently served as the Town Manager of Emerald Isle since June 2019, where he has successfully overseen operations for one of North Carolina's most vibrant coastal communities. His professional accomplishments include spearheading major infrastructure improvements, enhancing community engagement, and securing millions in grant funding for critical projects.

Zapp earned his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, with a Coastal Management concentration, equipping him with specialized knowledge in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of coastal municipalities. He is also a graduate of the UNC School of Government, holding certifications in Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA) and Municipal and County Administration (MCA).

Beyond his extensive professional achievements, Zapp actively contributes to key statewide organizations. He serves on the North Carolina League of Municipalities Risk Management Services Board of Trustees and the North Carolina Water Treatment Facility Operators Certification Board, to which he was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper in 2024.

"We are excited to welcome Matt Zapp as Beaufort's next Town Manager," said Mayor Sharon Harker. "His leadership, experience, and commitment to coastal communities make him a great fit for our town. We look forward to working with him as we continue to build on Beaufort's strengths while embracing the opportunities ahead."

Matt Zapp and his wife, Haley, have been married for 21 years and are proud parents of six children. The Zapp family is excited to join the Beaufort community and looks forward to contributing to its continued success and charm.

The Town of Beaufort Board of Commissioners extends its gratitude to Interim Town Manager Charles Burgess for his service during this transitional period and looks forward to working with Zapp as he begins his tenure no later than May 1, 2025.

For additional information, please contact:

Beaufort Public Information Officer Rachel Johnson at r.johnson@beaufortnc.org