Administration

Deputy Director

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Craig Murphy serves as the Deputy Director of Capital, Conservation, and Strategy, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role. Since joining the department in 2018 as an Administrator, Craig has spearheaded significant initiatives, including the establishment of the Capital and Strategic Planning Section. Under his guidance, the department underwent a transformative period, overhauling its capital program, crafting a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan, and pioneering the creation of the department’s inaugural DEI committee, along with accompanying policies and objectives. Notably, Craig led the department to achieve its first-ever CAPRA accreditation in 2023, a distinction attained by only 2 percent of all Recreation and Parks agencies nationwide.

Recognized as a dynamic leader, Craig has a proven track record of delivering top-tier programming that enriches the lives of youth, families, and older adults alike. His expertise spans organizational strategy, financial and program management, as well as governance and partnership cultivation.

Prior to his tenure with the department, Craig held the position of Chief Strategy Officer at Homeport, a nonprofit organization dedicated to affordable housing and community development. Over his 15-year tenure, he ascended through various roles of increasing responsibility, including Senior Vice President of Operations and Program Services, Vice President of Real Estate, and Homeownership Development Director.

Craig’s academic background includes a Master of Public Administration with a focus on Non-Profit Management, along with a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He has further augmented his skills through an 18-month executive education program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Duke University’s Continuing Studies Program.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Craig finds solace and joy in spending time with his family and pursuing his passion for running along the scenic greenway trails in and around Columbus during the early morning hours.