Wickenkamp hired to lead Development Services Department

03/17/2022 

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Oklahoma City Manager Craig Freeman announced the selection of Rick Wickenkamp as the City’s new Development Services Director.  

Wickenkamp succeeds Bob Tener, who retired in February after 40 years of service.  Wickenkamp has served as the department’s assistant director for the past 13 years. 

“Rick is a strong leader and has vast government experience working in everything from auditing to planning, which made him an ideal candidate,” said City Manager Craig Freeman. “I’m looking forward to putting his leadership skills to work in new roles to continue to advance Oklahoma City’s progress.” 

The Development Services Department has 190 employees and oversees, Animal Welfare, Code Enforcement, Subdivision and Zoning and the Development Center.  

Wickenkamp began his City career in 1999 as a management and budget analyst. Through the years, he was promoted to financial specialist, management specialist, audit manager and assistant director before being named director.  

Prior to his employment with the City, Wickenkamp served as the director of planning and development for the Southern Oklahoma Development Association, city manager for the City of Pauls Valley, staff writer for the Paul’s Valley Democrat and associate pastor for the First United Methodist Church. 

“I am honored by the confidence that City Manager Freeman has shown in me by naming me director,” said Wickenkamp. “I look forward to serving our residents, our customers, and the City organization as Development Services Director.” 

Wickenkamp has a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Oklahoma.  

Wickenkamp and his wife, Laurie, have two sons and four grandchildren. 

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