This week’s Lone Star profile is Sam Greif, deputy city manager for the city of Plano.
My public career highlights and education:
I spent 30 years with the Fort Worth Fire Department, then six years as Chief of Plano Fire-Rescue. I’m now in my fourth year as deputy city manager, working with six public safety departments. I earned an MPA from the University of Texas at Arlington and a BAAS from Midwestern State.
The best part of public service:
I love that public service lets me make a real difference every day. Helping improve safety, supporting employees, and making life better for our community is incredibly rewarding. It feels good knowing the work we do will outlast us and matter for years to come.
Some of the best advice you have ever received:
“Leave it better than you found it.” That simple phrase has stuck with me. Whether it’s a project, an organization, or a relationship, I try to make sure things are stronger, healthier, and more sustainable after I’ve been part of them.
Something I wish more people knew about my division of government:
City management isn’t just paperwork and meetings—it’s vision and teamwork. We’re the bridge between resources and community priorities. A lot happens behind the scenes to keep services running smoothly, and most people never realize how much coordination goes into making the city work well.
A current project or initiative that I am working on:
Right now, I’m focused on succession planning—mentoring the next generation of leaders and building systems that last. On the fire side, I’m leading a move to a 24/72 schedule for our firefighters, which will improve wellness and efficiency for the department.
One thing outside of government service people may not know about me:
Outside of work, I love RVing, boating, fishing, and playing golf. Most of all, I enjoy spending time with my wife, son, and two granddaughters. Family time keeps me grounded and recharged, so I can show up energized in my role serving the community.
