COVINGTON, Ky. (Diya TV) — The City of Covington has named Indian American Sharmili Reddy as its next city manager, marking a historic milestone as the first woman and first woman of color to hold the position. Reddy, currently the executive director of Planning and Development Services (PDS) of Kenton County, will assume her new role on Aug. 18. She will succeed Ken Smith, according to the Covington Board of Commissioners.
City officials say Reddy’s appointment represents progress in representation and leadership. Covington Mayor Ron Washington praised the decision, saying the board acted quickly because of her strong qualifications and track record.
“We moved with urgency because we knew we had an exceptional candidate in Sharmili Reddy,” Washington said. “She is smart, collaborative, and already deeply committed to serving Covington.”
Reddy’s appointment also reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to attract leaders with experience in community development, infrastructure planning, and public service. At PDS, Reddy has served 20 local jurisdictions, including Covington. She oversees a broad range of responsibilities, including building codes, community development, infrastructure engineering, geographic information systems, planning, zoning, and code enforcement.
Before joining PDS, she worked as the city administrator of Fort Mitchell for five years. In that role, she collaborated with city leadership on economic development, strategic projects, and municipal operations.
Reddy’s extensive experience has prepared her to step into Covington’s top administrative role.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Covington for years in my role at PDS, so this role felt like a natural next step,” Reddy said. “I’m truly excited to be part of the real momentum and meaningful progress Covington is experiencing.”
As city manager, Reddy will serve as the chief administrative officer, overseeing daily operations, managing departments, and executing policies set by the Covington Board of Commissioners.
The city plans to maintain the city manager form of government until Jan. 1, 2027, when it will transition to a mayor–council model. Even with the change, the current structure gives the city manager significant responsibility for implementing strategic goals, managing budgets, and ensuring efficient public services.
Reddy will work closely with elected officials, department heads, and community leaders to advance the city’s priorities. Reddy holds a master’s degree in community planning from the University of Cincinnati. She also earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from BMS College of Engineering in Bangalore, India.
Her academic background in planning and design has informed her approach to urban development and long-term city growth. Covington, known for its historic charm and revitalization efforts, has been investing in infrastructure upgrades, economic growth, and community projects. City leaders believe Reddy’s expertise will help continue that momentum.
Her leadership is expected to focus on balancing growth with preserving the city’s unique character, improving public infrastructure, and fostering strong community engagement. With more than two decades of experience in public administration and planning, Reddy brings both vision and practical skills to her new role.
Reddy’s appointment is also a moment of pride for the Indian American community and advocates for diversity in leadership roles. She represents a growing number of women of color breaking barriers in local government leadership positions across the United States.
Her career reflects a commitment to public service, community collaboration, and strategic development — qualities city officials say are vital as Covington prepares for its next chapter.
As she prepares to take office, Reddy will step into a role that requires both vision and day-to-day management. City leaders and residents alike are watching closely as she becomes a key figure in shaping Covington’s future.
