Jennifer Ott, Alameda's incumbent City Manager, is trading her current role for a familiar position back in Hayward after being selected to be City Manager of the City of Hayward. Ott's decision to move was made public this week, and she's set to start her new post on December 8, according to an announcement on the City of Hayward's website.
Ott is no stranger to the City of Hayward, having previously held positions of Deputy City Manager and Assistant City Manager before her tenure in Alameda began in November 2022. During her time in Alameda, Ott has made considerable strides as the city's chief executive, a role she will continue until early December. "The Council and I are thrilled to welcome Ms. Ott back to Hayward," Mayor Mark Salinas told the City of Hayward in their announcement.
Ott's departure from Alameda was similarly noted on the city's official site, with a touch of commendation for her work. “Jen has been an outstanding City Manager, and we will miss her," conveyed Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft in a statement provided by the City of Alameda. The current plan is for the Alameda City Council to appoint an interim City Manager the following month after Ott's departure.
Ott brings over 25 years of experience in local government issues, particularly within Alameda County, to her new position. Her wealth of experience and academic background speak to her qualifications for tackling the challenges ahead. "I am very excited for the opportunity to join former and new colleagues at the City of Hayward and meet the immediate challenges and future opportunities together,” Ott expressed her enthusiasm in a statement to the City of Hayward.
