April 28, 2026
Contact: Dustin Sternbeck, Assistant City Manager
d.sternbeck@manassasparkva.gov
(571) 602-5477
City of Manassas Park Names Dustin Sternbeck as Assistant City Manager
Manassas Park, VA – Following a comprehensive executive search and recruitment process, the City of Manassas Park is pleased to announce the selection of Dustin Sternbeck as its Assistant City Manager. Sternbeck brings a strong background in local government leadership and operations, with over 20 years of combined experience in the National Capital Region and North Texas.
In this role, Sternbeck will support the City Manager in operational coordination of City Departments, advancing key strategic initiatives, leading citywide marketing and communications efforts, and continuing to strengthen service delivery across departments.
He most recently served as the first Chief Communications Officer for the City of Denton, Texas, where he was a member of the City Manager’s executive leadership team. In that role, he oversaw all city marketing and communications functions, including strategic messaging, public engagement, and the city’s television production operations. He also directed the City’s Convention and Visitors Bureau, leading tourism strategy and event coordination efforts that supported economic development.
“Dustin brings a well-rounded perspective and a strong track record of leadership across multiple areas of local government,” says City Manager Carl Cole. “His experience in delivering reputable communications, advancing municipal operations, and contributing to community initiatives will be a valuable asset as we continue to move forward as an organization.”
In addition to his municipal experience, Sternbeck currently serves as a national consultant supporting a local government advisory initiative with the Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance. He is also an instructor for the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Emerging Leaders Development Program, where he helps prepare the next generation of public sector professionals.
Earlier in his career, Sternbeck built a strong foundation in public safety, with experience working for fire and rescue, emergency management, and law enforcement agencies.
“There is strong momentum here, and I am excited to be part of the team moving Manassas Park forward,” says Sternbeck. “I’m committed to supporting a strong civic culture, working alongside engaged residents, and ensuring we continue to deliver for the community even as challenges evolve.”
Sternbeck holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from West Virginia University and a Master of Public Administration degree from the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. A Northern Virginia native, he began serving as Assistant City Manager for Manassas Park in early April.
(About Manassas Park) Manassas Park is a place unlike any other - welcoming, diverse, connected, and full of opportunity. Located in the heart of Northern Virginia, Manassas Park offers a unique blend of close-knit charm and regional accessibility. While embracing growth, innovation, and progress, Manassas Park remains a place where people feel at home and everyone belongs. Learn more at manassasparkva.gov.
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