FORT PIERRE — The South Dakota Municipal League has named Sara Rankin of Pierre as the association’s new executive director.

“Sara is very passionate about the League and supporting our cities, and we’re thrilled to have her step fully into this important role,” said SDML President Harry Weller.

Rankin has been serving as both the league’s interim executive director and the director of member engagement for the past three months. Prior to those roles, she was the league’s director of marketing and communications and served as the president and CEO of the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce. Rankin holds a degree in business management and marketing from Western Dakota Tech.

“I couldn’t be more excited to take on this new role at the South Dakota Municipal League, an organization with a mission I care deeply about,” said Rankin. “I look forward to working with the dedicated board, staff, and cities across the state to grow our services and guide the League into the future.”

The SDML executive director is responsible for all aspects of the operations of the league, and works with member municipalities to answer questions, develops the league budget and action plans for board approval, works with other members of the staff in presenting workshops and training, serves as the principal lobbyist for the league, and oversees the production of league publications. The executive director also serves as the point of contact and secretary/treasurer for each of the 10 affiliate associations of the league.