Age: 34
Occupation: Assistant City Manager – City of Iowa City
What is your greatest professional achievement: I just eclipsed 10 years working in local government management. I cannot think of a more rewarding profession. The most rewarding achievements are the small, everyday things that go unnoticed by most, but have a profound impact on a resident, business or neighborhood. I love to see people’s reactions when they realize that their government is accessible, responsive and able to help them.
Who are your mentors: I learned more in the first year of my job with Iowa City than I did the previous few years combined. The city staff has so much experience and expertise. In particular, Tom Markus (city manager, city of Iowa City) has been great mentor who has helped me grow professionally by leaps and bounds over the last couple of years.
How do you ensure a balance between work and your personal life: I used to believe there was enough time to complete everything I needed to do at work. I now realize that simply is not possible or healthy. You have to learn how to walk away so a healthy balance can be achieved. Now I just need to learn how to put down my phone when I am home.
What do you know now that you wish you had known earlier in your career: Early in my career I felt I needed to have the solution to every problem. I am learning that developing solutions is not as important of a leadership skill as empowering others to be creative in their decision-making.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you: I try to be very calm and measured with my day-to-day approach at work. However, deep down I am a hyper-competitive person. Learning to let my daughters beat me at Candy Land has been tough!
