Town of Manchester Announces Director of Public Works Appointment
September 29, 2026 - Following a highly competitive selection process, Town Manager Steve Stephanou is pleased to announce the appointment of Manchester native Mark Rizzo as the Town’s new Director of Public Works. Mr. Rizzo brings over a decade of dedicated municipal leadership, extensive infrastructure management expertise, and a distinguished record of public service to the role. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Department’s Interim Director, Deputy Director, and Field Services Superintendent.
Mr. Rizzo, second from right, is joined by Deputy Town Manager Kasia Purciello, Town Manager Steve Stephanou, and Assistant Town Manager Joel Cox.
"Mark's deep roots in Manchester, combined with his proven track record of operational excellence and team focused leadership, made him the ideal choice to guide our Public Works Department into the future," said Town Manager Steve Stephanou. "Following a rigorous recruitment process, Mark consistently demonstrated the strategic vision, technical capabilities, and commitment to workforce safety and community service that Manchester residents deserve.”
Before entering municipal public service, Mr. Rizzo served with honor in the United States Army as a Squad Leader. During his military tenure, he managed critical equipment and led soldiers in high-stakes environments, earning both the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his distinguished combat service.
Prior to joining the Town of Manchester's leadership team, Mr. Rizzo served for over a decade with the Town of Vernon Department of Public Works as Supervisor of Facilities & Special Projects, managing major capital improvement programs, facility maintenance, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
"As a Manchester native, it is a tremendous honor to serve the community where I grew up," said Rizzo. "I look forward to continuing to work alongside the dedicated men and women of the Public Works Department to deliver high-quality infrastructure, enhance public safety, and serve our residents with integrity and excellence."
In his role as Director, Mr. Rizzo will oversee the planning, direction, and operations of the Town’s multi-division Department of Public Works, including streets and roads, stormwater infrastructure, public buildings and grounds, fleet operations, solid waste and recycling, and capital improvement project management.
For more information about the Town of Manchester Department of Public Works, please visit https://www.manchesterct.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works.
Contact: Steve Stephanou, Town Manager sstephanou@manchesterct.gov 860-647-3123