The City of Novato is excited to announce Jessica Deakyne will be returning to the organization in the role of Assistant City Manager overseeing the Human Resources, Parks & Recreation, Communications and IT departments. In the spring, after five years with the City of Novato, Jessica took a position as the Assistant to the City Manager of St. Helena where she was tackling the issues of housing, economic development and community engagement around a planned civic center project. 

“Novato has been home for me since 2014, so when I was asked by the Acting City Manager to serve in a leadership role to help restore my community's confidence in City Hall, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up,” said Deakyne. 

Having spent the last five years at the City of Novato, where she built strong relationships with the community, she is poised to step into the Assistant City Manager role with a deep knowledge of what is needed to help take the organization in a positive direction. In her previous position, she worked closely with the Downtown Novato Business Association and the Economic Development Advisory Commission as well as coordinating with brokers to find tenants for commercial spaces. She also successfully oversaw extensive community engagement leading up to the redevelopment of the historic train depot, which is one of the exciting projects ahead for the City.

“I have been fortunate to observe Jessica’s professionalism, energy, and strong skill set over the past several years,” said Acting City Manager Adam McGill. “Her respect in the community, ability to tackle challenges, and build relationships is exactly what we need to strengthen City Hall.”

A native of southern California, Deakyne earned a bachelor's degree in social ecology with a minor in digital media from UC Irvine. She holds a master of public administration from Cal State Fullerton having participated in the City Management Fellowship Program and was an Eno Leadership Development Fellow. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Municipal Management Association of Northern California, a group of more than 600 local government professionals and leaders. 

Jessica will assume her new role on September 30, 2019 and will earn $148,844 annually.  She lives in Novato with her husband Todd. 

Jessica Deakyne, Assistant City Manager effective September 30, 2019