Serving with Purpose: Why COO Jennifer Fadden Focuses on One Relationship at a Time

Long before Jennifer Fadden became a city manager or the Chief Operating Officer of Strategic Government Resources (SGR), her path was being quietly shaped by the most fundamental of influences—her family. "It is pretty clear to me as I reflect back on my earlier years, the influence my parents had in my life and the example that they set for me growing up," she recalls.

Jennifer Fadden, MPA, ICMA-CM

"My parents instilled a volunteer spirit and really taught me that real happiness isn't about what we receive from others, but what we give to them."

Her father, an elected official in their hometown, wasn't just talking about civic engagement—he was living it, providing young Jennifer with a front-row seat to the nuanced art of public service.

These early experiences were more than mere observations. She was immersed in a family culture that viewed community involvement not as an optional extra, but as a fundamental responsibility.

From Law School Dreams to Local Government

Some of life's most significant journeys begin with a moment of unexpected clarity. For Jennifer, that moment came when she realized her initial dream of becoming a lawyer didn't align with her true calling. "When I figured out that being a lawyer was not the path for me, the only other thing I contemplated was city management," she shares with a reflective smile.

This pivot wasn't just a career change—it was an alignment with her core values. Armed with curiosity and determination, she pursued a bachelor's and master's degree in public administration from the University of North Texas, transforming her growing interest into a strategic pathway.

Her approach to entering the field was as remarkable as her decision to change course. Rewind back before digital networking and easy email introductions, she leveraged the power of direct communication. She simply sent a letter to the city manager of Denton, Lloyd Harrell, with a bold proposition:

"I'm going to be starting my master's in public administration in the fall. I want to be a city manager, and I want to come volunteer in your office for the summer."

This audacious request wasn't just a pitch—it was a declaration of intent. Her proactive approach paid dividends, securing a summer internship that would become the launching pad for an extraordinary career. It was a helpful reminder that opportunities often materialize for those courageous enough to ask, reach out, and demonstrate genuine passion.

The Mentorship of Kay Granger: A Formative Influence

In the world of professional development, she believes that mentorship can be a transformative force. For her, it came in the form of then Fort Worth Mayor, Kay Granger, a leader who profoundly shaped her understanding of public service and leadership.

Working at the City of Fort Worth during her early twenties, she found herself in the orbit of a woman who was redefining leadership dynamics. "She was a giant in public service," she recalls. "I saw the influence that a servant leader could have on others." This wasn't just a professional observation—it was an awakening.

The experience was particularly important for a young woman navigating a professional field traditionally dominated by men. "While I've never tried to make gender an issue in my career, I couldn't help but recognize this is a woman who is forging a path and creating opportunities for an entire community."

Granger's leadership was more than a template—it was a living, breathing example of how authentic leadership transcends titles and breaks down systemic barriers. For Jennifer, this mentorship was a masterclass in servant leadership, demonstrating that true impact comes from genuine commitment and a relentless focus on community needs.

The Complexity of Local Government

Her career has been a journey through various municipal landscapes—from the expansive Fort Worth, to smaller cities like Weatherford and Colleyville. Each stop offered unique insights into the multifaceted world of public service.

"In a smaller organization, you become a master of all trades. You really have to learn a more significant level of detail about many more things than you would in a large organization, where people tend to be much more specialized."

What draws her to public service? "The multidisciplinary work," she says with enthusiasm. "We have to be experts in everything from public safety to fund accounting, from pavement condition scores to landfill lifespan."

Her approach to leadership goes far beyond technical competence.

"Technical aptitude gets your resume looked at, but having emotional intelligence is what gets you the job."

Her mantra boils down to a simple principle: "How well do you play with others?" She emphasizes communication—particularly listening—as the critical skill. "Communication has become an art," she notes. "There are almost no roles that are solo operations today."

Perhaps most revealing is her view of success. Her proudest achievement isn't a project, or a budget balanced, but the leaders she's helped develop. "During my tenure in Colleyville, there were three different individuals that I brought onto the team who have since moved on to be city managers in other communities."

She sees this as a form of multiplicative impact:

"There's a multiplier effect in that... I paid it forward through them because they've gone on to transform other communities."

The Heart of Public Service: Building Genuine Relationships

At its core, public service is a human endeavor—a complex, nuance of connections, understanding, and mutual respect. As Eleanor Roosevelt—one of Jennifer's inspirations—once said:

"When handling yourself, use your head. When handling others, use your heart."

For Jennifer, this isn't just a professional philosophy—it's a way of life. Her advice for those considering public service is both practical and inspirational:

Know Your Purpose
"Figure out your why first and then pursue opportunities that fulfill that why."
Embrace Challenges
"Do something that you don't think you're ready to do—that's how we grow."
Build Genuine Relationships
"Life is all about relationships. You will never achieve anything you don't ask for."
Practice Humility
"Have the humility to recognize that you don't know what you don't know."
Cultivate Emotional Intelligence
"Be genuinely interested in other people's and a team's success versus your own."

The Journey of Finding Purpose

Her final piece of wisdom, drawn from the Athenian oath she cherishes: "It is our responsibility to transmit the community that we're serving greater and more beautiful than we found it."

Her story is more than a career narrative—it's an invitation. An invitation to see public service not as a job, but as a calling. A calling that requires passion, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to community.

For anyone considering a path in public service, let Jennifer Fadden's journey be both inspiration and proof that meaningful careers often begin with a single, courageous step - and sometimes a handwritten letter.

More Recommended Resources

The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) is a professional organization founded in 1914 that advances local government management worldwide through leadership, ethics, and innovation. It provides support, publications, and training to over 12,000 city, town, and county managers, promoting professional development and best practices in local governance.
The Texas City Management Association (TCMA) is an organization dedicated to promoting high standards in local government leadership, ethics, and education for Texas cities. It focuses on supporting the council-manager form of government and fostering partnerships between local government professionals and elected officials.
Strategic Government Resources (SGR) is a consulting firm that helps local governments succeed by recruiting, assessing, and developing innovative leaders. They offer services such as executive recruitment, interim placements, and leadership development for public sector organizations.
Strategic Government Resources (SGR) Weekly Wednesday Webinars are free webinars hosted every Wednesday by SGR that covers diverse topics relevant to local government professionals. These sessions provide valuable insights and knowledge on various aspects of public sector management and leadership.
"My First Million" is a podcast hosted by Sam Parr and Shaan Puri, that explores entrepreneurship and business ideas, featuring interviews with successful entrepreneurs and discussions on current economic trends. It offers insights into various paths to financial success and wealth creation.
Randy Mayeux's First Friday Book Synopsis provides summaries and insights from business and leadership books.
The Athenian Oath originated in ancient Athens as a fundamental requirement for citizenship and military service. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire modern public service institutions, symbolizing the timeless ideal that true citizenship is about more than rights—it's about a deep, personal commitment to collective progress and shared ideals.