Gov Business Review: Specials Magazine

Troy Lestina plays a key role in shaping the City of Mansfield’s long-term growth strategy, financial stewardship, and organizational direction. Over nearly two decades of service, he has progressed from assistant finance director to CFO and deputy city manager, helping maintain the city’s strong financial position while supporting the community’s continued expansion. His leadership is grounded in thoughtful planning, accountability and a belief that lasting public value is created through collaboration and disciplined execution. The Cornerstones of Professional Credibility Credibility in public finance does not come from a title or a credential. It comes from a sustained commitment to understanding your field, your organization, and the people who depend on both. That commitment never ends. My city manager often says, “Leaders are learners.” That is extremely true, especially at moments when experience alone is not enough. Early in my career, I worked on a four-person team managing annual financial statements and preparing audits. I underestimated the diligence the work required. We missed several initial deadlines, jeopardizing statutory filing requirements and demanding a significant extra effort to recover. That experience changed how I think about execution. Missed milestones do not stay contained. They ripple outward, creating pressure across the entire organization. Since then, disciplined deadline management has been a core part of how I operate.

Brandon Madden brings a service-driven approach to municipal leadership, grounded in a commitment to public trust, operational excellence and community impact. As Deputy City Manager for the City of Greenville, South Carolina, he helps oversee the day-to-day functions of city government while supporting strategic decision-making across critical areas. Working across departments and community stakeholders, he helps translate long-term priorities into practical outcomes that strengthen the city and the services residents depend on every day. Growth Guided by Purpose Greenville continues to grow. That growth is exciting and creates opportunities. Yet I do not believe growth by itself is a measure of success. The questions that matter are different. Are we building a city that works for everyone? Are we investing in infrastructure and institutions that will endure? Are we making decisions that future generations will appreciate rather than inherit as burdens? These questions shape how I approach public service. My job is not to be in charge, but to take care of the people in my charge. When leaders focus on helping others succeed, stronger outcomes tend to follow.