Encinitas tabs Campbell as Parks and Rec Director

Jennifer Campbell has been appointed as Encinitas Parks and Recreation Director, the city announced Wednesday.

City Manager Karen P. Brust has appointed Campbell to replace Jim O’Grady, who has served as interim director since Lisa Rudloff resigned as Encinitas Parks and Recreation Director in March.

Campbell comes to Encinitas with over 18 years of experience in municipal government, most of which has been in the field of Parks and Recreation. She has a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Leadership and Public Administration from Northern Arizona University and a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from the University of Arizona. She is a Certified Park & Recreation Professional, a Certified Public Manager, possesses a Smartscape Certification and is a Parks Maintenance Management School Graduate.

“Ms. Campbell brings a wealth of experience with a focus on customer service,” Brust said in a news release. “Her warm and approachable communication style will foster a supportive and customer serving environment for the community to enjoy.”

Campbell has been working as the Assistant City Manager for Glendale, Ariz., since March 2014, providing leadership overseeing Development Services, Public Works and the Water Department. Prior to that, she was progressively promoted through the ranks in the field of Parks and Recreation as a Recreation Coordinator, Recreation and Aquatics Supervisor, Recreation and Aquatics Superintendent, Parks and Recreation Superintendent and, eventually, Community Services Director for the city of Maricopa, Ariz.

Campbell has also been an Adjunct Professor at a community college teaching recreation classes since 2003.

“I’m excited to be joining the dedicated team of civic leaders at the city of Encinitas,” Campbell said in the release. “I know how much residents and the broader community value their parks, beaches and trails. I look forward to collaborating with residents and city staff to provide meaningful experiences for everyone enjoying these community treasures.”

According to Encinitas Deputy Mayor Lisa Shaffer in her weekly newsletter, O’Grady will stay with the city as its interim Assistant City Manager while Brust searches to fill the position permanently.

“Jim has done a great job as acting Parks and Recreation Director,” Shaffer wrote, “and I know the City Manager will be much more effective with the Assistant City Manager position filled. There is much work to do!”