KENLY – After completing a nationwide search which yielded 30 candidates, the Kenly Town Council has announced the hiring of Justine Jones as their unanimous choice for Kenly’s next Town Manager. Jones will begin work on June 2, 2022. Jones was selected during the most recent recruitment process conducted by Triangle J Council of Governments.
Jones has dedicated her career to public service over the last 16 years during which she worked in progressively responsible positions with local governments in Minnesota, Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina. She began her municipal career as the Executive Assistant to the City Manager and National Urban Fellow in the City of Norfolk, Virginia.
She eventually ascended to the position of Management and Budget Analyst where she collaborated with departments as an objective policy advisor to assess program, fiscal, and performance measures, monitored fiscal operations and assisted with the preparation of annual budget requests.
She then worked as a Department Director where she provided strategic direction and assumed responsibility for all activities, functions, and policies, including the department’s budget and staff. As Principal in her consulting company, she provided strategy development, implementation, program and project management support to her client companies.
Throughout her career, she’s been responsible for the operational performance of her assigned areas within the organizations she’s served; delivered public services effectively and efficiently; oversaw budgets ranging from $5,000 to $61M; successfully took on administrative responsibilities; hired, trained and supervised staff; implemented the policies of her elected officials; and most notably built and launched a brand-new department. Her experiences and background have thoroughly prepared her for her new role as Town Manager for Kenly.
Jones earned her Bachelor’s degree from Concordia University in Saint Paul, Minnesota; a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota; and a second Master’s degree in Public Administration from the City University of New York – Baruch College.
“I am honored that the Council has entrusted me with the responsibility of being Kenly’s next manager,” stated Jones. “Kenly’s diversity and dynamic potential offers intriguing challenges and a promising future of growth and prosperity that I am excited to become a part of. I welcome the challenge of overseeing the Town’s operations and I am looking forward to working with the Mayor, Town Council, and the talented and committed Staff of Kenly. In this short time, I have learned I will be joining a dedicated Team that possesses an extensive understanding of Kenly’s services. Together we will continue providing excellent services to our community.”
In her spare time, Jones enjoys gardening, bike riding, roller skating, international traveling, interior decorating and volunteering in her community.
