Gov Business Review: Specials Magazine

David C. Roberts, Jr. brings a lifetime of service and leadership to his role as City Manager of Carson. A former non-commissioned officer in the United States Army at the rank of Sergeant, he has built extensive experience across federal, private and public sectors. He joined Carson as Assistant City Manager and was later unanimously appointed City Manager, overseeing municipal operations with a focus on financial stewardship, policy implementation, public safety, economic development, community engagement and legislative monitoring. Known for his hands-on, bridge-building approach, he unites complex city functions to ensure the mayor and council’s vision translates into meaningful outcomes for the community. A Journey Rooted in Service Service has been the defining thread throughout my life. I was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, into a deeply faith-centered family. My grandfather served as a Pastor overseeing churches, and my father served in the United States Army while also pastoring our congregation as a youth. Our family moved to California when I was young, and those early lessons stayed with me. Faith and service were never abstract ideas in our household. They were living principles. That environment shaped my belief in selfless service, placing others’ needs ahead of my own and leading with compassion rather than conflict. When my time in the United States Army concluded, continuing in public service felt like a natural progression. Leadership, in my view, has always been about unity. It means working shoulder-to-shoulder with others, not standing above them. The professionals I work alongside in Carson exemplify that spirit every day. Their dedication turns challenges into shared victories and strengthens our collective impact. Leading with Vision and Community Trust The role of a city manager sits at the crossroads of policy, administration and public expectation. Every decision must balance long-term strategy with the