Major Government Appointments Ready To Take Effect In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT — Two major appointments in Manchester will take effect when the new fiscal year begins on July 1.

Town Manager Steve Stephanou this week announced the appointments of Kasia Purciello as deputy town manager and Joel Cox as assistant town manager.

"{These strategic leadership appointments reflect the Town’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service to the Manchester community," he said. "Both positions will assist the town manager in providing administrative management of town operations and help oversee the effective delivery of services to the community, consistent with the Board of Directors' policies."

Purciello has more than 10 years of experience in public administration and has served as assistant town manager in Manchester since 2022. Prior to joining Manchester, she served as assistant town manager in Enfield from 2019 to 2022.

"Her deep understanding of municipal operations, collaborative leadership style, and steadfast dedication to public service make her exceptionally well-suited for the role of deputy town manager," Stephanou said.

Joining the town's executive leadership team as assistant town manager is Cox, whose background in municipal programming and passion for community-centered policy will be "instrumental in further advancing Manchester’s strategic goals." Cox has held the position of director of human services in Manchester since 2019, a title he will keep in his new role, where he has "demonstrated a strong capacity for innovation, civic engagement, and effective program management."

"These appointments mark an exciting step forward for Manchester," Stephanou said. "Kasia and Joel bring complementary strengths, forward-thinking approaches, and a deep respect for the people and values that shape our town. I am confident they will help lead Manchester with integrity, creativity, and purpose.

"As deputy and assistant town managers, Ms. Purciello and Mr. Cox will work closely with the Town Manager and department heads to guide policy implementation, operational planning, and strategic initiatives that reflect the priorities of Manchester's residents and businesses."

The appointments were approved by the Board of Directors as part of the FY26 Budget, which takes effect on July 1.