Fincher Named Martinsville City Manager

Veteran police leader takes on new role after serving as interim

Mar. 11, 2026 at 7:24pm

Martinsville City Council has appointed Robert Fincher as the city's new city manager. Fincher has served as interim city manager since August 2025 and brings more than three decades of public service and leadership experience to the role, including 31 years with the Martinsville Police Department, the last three as Chief of Police.

Why it matters

Fincher's appointment as city manager comes at a critical time for Martinsville, as the city looks to build on recent progress and continue improving public safety, economic development, and quality of life for residents.

The details

During a meeting on Tuesday night, City Council voted to approve an agreement with Fincher to serve as the permanent city manager. In his new role, Fincher will be responsible for overseeing all city operations and leading a team of municipal employees.

  • Fincher has served as interim city manager since August 2025.
  • City Council voted to approve Fincher's appointment as city manager on March 11, 2026.

The players

Robert Fincher

A veteran public servant who has spent over 30 years with the Martinsville Police Department, including the last three as Chief of Police, and was recently appointed as the new Martinsville City Manager.

Kathy Lawson

The Vice Mayor of Martinsville, who expressed the city council's joy in appointing Fincher as the new city manager.

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What they’re saying

“I am deeply honored to be able to continue serving a city that I love. I am confident that with the hard work of our amazing city employees and our wonderful citizens, we can keep making Martinsville a fantastic place to live, work, and have fun.”

— Robert Fincher, Martinsville City Manager

“It is with great joy that we announce the appointment of Robert Fincher as our new city manager. Rob's leadership during the interim period has exceeded all expectations, and we look forward to his continued service to our city in this new role.”

— Kathy Lawson, Martinsville Vice Mayor

What’s next

Fincher will assume his duties as Martinsville City Manager immediately, continuing the work he began in the interim role and collaborating with city council and staff to address key priorities for the community.

The takeaway

Fincher's appointment as Martinsville's new city manager represents a seamless transition of leadership, drawing on his extensive experience in public service and law enforcement to guide the city forward during a critical time. His commitment to the community and collaborative approach are expected to be assets as he takes on this new role.