Fast Five with Phil Reiger

Published on August 24, 2023

Phil Reiger leads one of the most diverse departments in the City of Charlotte, the Department of General Services. The department delivers a broad set of services including procurement, project and asset management and sustainability for city-built infrastructure. Its goal is to help build a better community for everyone who lives and works in Charlotte.

Which part of the organization do you lead?

I am privileged to lead the Department of General Services, which includes 400 plus extraordinarily dedicated city employees performing the following functions: engineering and project management, building maintenance, fleet maintenance, landscape management, real estate management, sustainability and resilience, and procurement.

Why did you decide to work for the City of Charlotte?

Long ago, I chose Charlotte because it had a reputation of strong and stable elected and professional leadership. It was a growing city, investing in cool projects like light rail and appeared to be a great place to start and grow a career. Twenty-three years later, all those things remain true for me!

What is the biggest organizational priority you’re working on right now?

General Services provides a myriad of services to our fellow departments and the residents of Charlotte. Our work directly or indirectly supports most, if not all, of the city’s priorities including transportation, housing, economic development, public safety and the environment. We take great pride in doing our best to help the city meet its goals.

What is your favorite part about working for the City of Charlotte?

It is hard to single out one favorite, but two things come to mind that have been true my entire career. First, the people I have had the opportunity to work alongside, both past and present, have been such a blessing. Second, the work has been always professionally challenging, meaningful and always full of twists and turns.

What is your favorite restaurant in Charlotte?

I am a big fan of the Kings Kitchen. I like their mission “to raise funds to feed the spiritual and physical needs of those who have the least in our community...” and of course, the southern cuisine.