Following a national recruitment search, the City of Savannah has appointed Ashley Reynolds Marshall as Community Services Chief for the Community Services Service Center, effective February 16th.

Marshall is a mission-driven executive with extensive experience in local government leadership, public health, and nonprofit and community-based partnerships. She most recently served as Deputy City Manager for Social Equity and Chief Prosperity Officer for the City of Charlottesville, where she led departments focused on human needs and justice, including Parks and Recreation, Human Rights, Human Services, Police Civilian Oversight, Social Services, Sustainability, and Social Equity.

“Ashley brings a rare combination of strategic leadership, deep compassion, and real-world experience working across complex community systems,” said Jay Melder, Savannah’s City Manager. “Her background aligns perfectly with Savannah’s priorities, and I’m confident she will be an outstanding leader for our Community Services Service Center and a strong partner to the neighborhoods we serve.”

Prior to her local government service, Marshall held several senior nonprofit leadership roles, including CEO of the YWCA of Central Virginia and Executive Director of Mental Health America of the Roanoke Valley. In these roles, she led organizational transformations and secured significant funding to expand access to critical community services.

Marshall holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hollins University, a Juris Doctor from the College of William and Mary School of Law, a Master of Public Administration from Virginia Tech, and a Master of Public Health from Yale University.

The Community Services Service Center plays a vital role in advancing the City of Savannah’s strategic priorities by improving quality of life through planning and development, neighborhood revitalization, parks and recreation, arts and cultural enrichment, youth and family services, housing rehabilitation and financing, and initiatives that support safe and thriving communities.

Melder also expressed appreciation for interim leadership during the transition.

“I want to thank Melissa Carter, who has served as Acting Community Services Chief for the past five months,” Melder said. “Her diligence, passion, and dedication have helped keep this Service Center moving forward during a critical period, and we are grateful for her leadership.”

Marshall will officially assume her role on February 16 and join the City’s executive leadership team as part of Team Savannah.