How much change has the organization undergone during your time as manager?
I would say that it has undergone quite a bit of change in terms of our approach to work, increased personal and professional development of staff and the enhanced quality of our service to the community.

When I joined the City, I found a great organization with wonderful people who were committed to providing excellent service to our residents.

In Part I of the Ten Faces of Innovation book review we explored Kelley’s description of the three learning personas. In Part II we delve into the Organizing Personas that Kelley describes: The Hurdler, The Collaborator and The Director.

“Dwindling revenue coupled with increased demand for services is something I see in many cities and counties, and it’s pushing us to be creative, flexible, and collaborative,” responds Jacobs, when asked about the challenges facing managers today. “This is a good thing, but it makes our task more challenging.”

Like many other local governments, Albemarle County is anticipating a “retirement tsunami” in the near future.

Download a free PDF of ICMA’s 2013–2014 Press Catalog, including a two-page spread that features new books.