Administration

Bryan Kent Jackson ("Kent") first joined the Town of Oak Island in September 2025, serving as the Assistant Town Manager. Effective July 1, 2026, he is serving in the role of Interim Town Manager, following the retirement of former Manager Kathryn Adams.

Kent is a North Carolina native and NC State alumnus, who has also completed the Municipal Administration Certification Program through the University of North Carolina School of Government. Most recently, he has served as the Assistant Town Manager / Engineering Director, and previously the Town Engineer for the Town of Pittsboro, NC.

As an NC Licensed Professional Engineer, Kent brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the fields of development services, public works, and transportation; skills that will prove crucial in his role as Assistant Town Manager, overseeing important Town projects. He has a long history of involvement in various boards devoted to Human Services and Affordable Housing, as well as serving as past Chairman of the NC State Building Commission, and Director of State Construction.

During the search for a new Town Manager, Kent Jackson will assumed the full responsibilities as Interim Town Manager, and adjust Administrative Staff to ensure all Town services continue to be provided with minimal disruption. The Town Council has committed to providing public updates as often as possible on the search for a new Town Manager, which can be viewed at OakIslandNC.gov/MANAGER. 

Kent Jackson, Interim Town Manager

During a special meeting on July 23, 2026, the Oak Island Town Council voted unanimously to hire Katherine Cathey as the new Town Manager, with an effective start date of September 28, 2026.

Katherine Miller Cathey is a dedicated public servant and local government leader with more than 20 years of experience in county and municipal administration.

She currently serves as County Manager for Person County, North Carolina, where she oversees county operations and works closely with elected officials, staff, and community partners. Before stepping into this role, she served as Assistant County Manager for Person County and previously held human resources and budgeting positions with the Town of Hillsborough and Orange County.

Katherine holds a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Policy Studies from Duke University. She is an ICMA Credentialed Manager and an active leader in professional, civic, and nonprofit organizations across North Carolina.

Outside of her professional work, Katherine is involved in Rotary, her church community, and organizations that strengthen local government and civic life.

“I am truly honored to serve as Oak Island’s next Town Manager and grateful for the opportunity to become part of such a welcoming community," Katherine stated upon learning of the Council's decision. "I look forward to working alongside the Town Council, staff, and community members to build on the Town’s strengths and advance its goals and priorities. My family and I are excited to make Oak Island our home, and I look forward to getting to know the people who make this community so special.”