Sofia Appoints Nikolay Nedelkov as New Deputy Mayor for Environment
Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev has appointed Engineer Nikolay Nedelkov as the new Deputy Mayor for the “Environment” department, effective March 4, 2026. The appointment is part of a restructuring effort within the Sofia Municipality, aimed at strengthening operational control and improving efficiency in waste management.
A Shift in Leadership
Nedelkov replaces Nadezhda Bobcheva, whose departure was mutually agreed upon, according to reports from Fakti.bg. Mayor Terziev expressed his confidence in Nedelkov’s abilities, citing his professionalism, principled approach, and efficiency demonstrated during his time at the Sofia Inspectorate and within the crisis headquarters.
Focus on Waste Management
The change in leadership underscores a renewed focus on waste management within Sofia. The municipality aims to strengthen control mechanisms and increase efficiency in the sector. The “waste” issue requires a more robust and consistent operational focus, necessitating adjustments to the management model within the “Environment” department.
Nikolay Nedelkov’s Background
Nikolay Nedelkov is an environmental engineer with over ten years of experience within the Sofia Municipality system, specializing in waste control and management. He began his career at the Sofia Inspectorate in 2013 as a senior inspector, eventually leading key units responsible for overseeing construction waste and combating illegal dumping. Fakti.bg reports that he was appointed director of the Sofia Inspectorate at the end of 2023.
Recent Achievements at the Sofia Inspectorate
As director of the Sofia Inspectorate, Nedelkov initiated a large-scale inspection of illegal landfills in Sofia, identifying over 240 unregulated sites. He also strengthened control measures regarding the removal of construction waste and increased penalties for violations. The Inspectorate reported record levels of inspections, acts, and sanctions in both 2024 and 2025, with a particular emphasis on addressing abuses within the waste management system. Nedelkov also played a key coordinating role in the crisis headquarters for garbage collection in Sofia, beginning in January 2025, helping to stabilize services in affected areas.
Educational Background
Engineer Nedelkov holds a master’s degree in “Environmental Risk Assessment and Sustainable Development” and a postgraduate qualification in “Crisis Management” from the Military Academy.
Acknowledgement of Former Deputy Mayor
The Sofia Municipality has expressed its gratitude to Nadezhda Bobcheva for her efforts and contributions to the city.