Jessica Deakyne

Chief Operating Officer

Jessica is a passionate and empathetic local government leader with over 18 years of public service experience.  Jessica has made lasting impacts on the local government landscape with her expertise in human resources, strategic planning, economic development, community engagement and communications, and policy creation. She also serves as a key advocate for sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion through citywide initiatives and programs and is known for her innovative approach to problem-solving and her dedication to both people and the profession.

Prior to joining MRG, Jessica served the City of Novato for over ten years, with over 5 years as the Assistant City Manager. As Assistant City Manager, Jessica lead strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing economic development, improving internal and external communications, and advancing community-centered programs. Under her leadership, the city took bold steps to ensure budget sustainability, improve employee benefits, and maintain collaborative labor relations. Jessica also has experience in transportation primarily focused on community engagement and program management. She began her public service career at the Orange County Transportation Authority and then served at Solano County Transit and the City of St. Helena. Her transportation work reflects a commitment to improving access, communication, and services for diverse communities.

When not working to better her community, Jessica enjoys giving back through various leadership roles, including her work with the Municipal Management Association of Northern California, where she served as president in 2020. In 2022, Jessica co-created UpNext, a leadership community designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in public service. 

Jessica holds an undergraduate degree in Social Ecology with a minor in Digital Media from the University of California Irvine and a Master of Public Administration with an Urban Management concentration from California State University Fullerton. She is an alumna of Harvard University’s Senior Executives in State & Local Government program and was recognized for her leadership when named one of North Bay Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2023. She is the 2022 recipient of the Wes McClure Outstanding Assistant Award.