APMM Series: Navigating the Crossroads: Crandall Jones on Career Transitions in City Management

In this episode, we explore the multi-faceted career of Crandall Jones, a seasoned City Manager. His is not a predictable story, but one with many twists and turns. Crandall opens up about the challenges that impacted his big decisions. Crandall is currently the Chief Administrative Officer at Upper Darby Township in Delaware County Pennsylvania. He previously served as CAO in Norristown, Pennsylvania in Montgomery County. In addition to serving as an adjunct at Villanova University, he serves on the Board of the APPM.This episode is particularly valuable for those considering a career in city management or a new opportunity in the field of local government.The APMM series highlights the many layers and aspects of local government work. Be sure to check out the links to APMM and visit us at the upcoming ICMA conference in Pittsburgh!SHOW NOTESFollow Crandall Jones on LinkedInFollow APMM on LinkedInMORE INFORMATION ABOUT APMMSign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter to receive updates about the community and this podcast HERE TIMESTAMPS[00:00:00] Introduction and Crandall’s BackgroundNancy introduces Crandall and the focus of the episode on his career in city management.[00:01:51] The Unique Arc of a City Management CareerCrandall discusses how each city management career is unique and shaped by personal choices and challenges.[00:04:00] Early Inspiration in Political ScienceCrandall shares how a high school political science course sparked his interest in local government.[00:07:01] Lessons from Savannah: The Importance of PlanningCrandall reflects on his time in Savannah, where he learned the value of big-picture thinking and community engagement.[00:13:15] Transition to City ManagementCrandall talks about his move from economic development to city management and the challenges he faced.[00:19:38] The Role of MentorshipCrandall emphasizes the importance of mentorship in his career and how it helped shape his path in city management.[00:26:10] Navigating Race-related IssuesCrandall discusses his experiences managing in diverse communities and the challenges of navigating race-related issues.[00:34:09] The Importance of Building Strong TeamsCrandall shares insights on the importance of team building and leadership in local government.[00:43:12] Strategic Planning and Community HealthDiscussion on the need for strategic planning in addressing long-term community health and infrastructure issues.[00:52:03] Making Career TransitionsCrandall reflects on his decision to transition to new opportunities and the factors that influence such decisions.