Jennifer Jorgensen joined the City of Sarasota in January 2023 as the Governmental Relations Manager and was promoted to Director of Governmental Affairs in December 2023. In March 2026, the City Commission appointed Jennifer to serve as Interim City Manager, a role carried out through May 29, 2026. City Manager Karie Friling appointed Jennifer as the permanent Deputy City Manager in June 2026.
During her time as Director of Governmental Affairs, the City has received over $20 million in federal and state appropriations, she has worked on legislative strategy at the local and state level, led the Procurement, Grants and Special Events teams as well as overseeing the Bay Park and Sarasota Performing Arts Center Projects. With more than 15 years of leadership and legal experience spanning government operations, corporate affairs, and legislative advocacy, Jennifer provides steady, strategic guidance and ensures operational continuity for the City of Sarasota. In addition to Deputy City Manager responsibilities and oversight of multiple departments, Jennifer continues to oversee the federal and state legislative strategy for the City.
Jennifer’s background includes management roles at The Walt Disney Company, where she managed vendor relationships, negotiated complex technology and service agreements, and led business affairs for Disney Institute. Earlier in Jennifer’s career, she served as Legal Counsel and Lobbyist for the Nebraska Association of School Boards, successfully drafting and passing state legislation, and led advancement operations in higher education and the non-profit sector.
Jennifer holds a Juris Doctor (with Distinction) from the University of Nebraska College of Law and a B.A. from the University of Minnesota. A licensed attorney, Jennifer is recognized for navigating complex regulatory environments while fostering strong, collaborative relationships with the City Commission, staff, and the Sarasota community.