Governmental Affairs Director appointed Deputy City Manager
July 27, 2026
Sarasota, FL: Jennifer Jorgensen, the City’s Director of Governmental Affairs, recently was appointed as the permanent Deputy City Manager by City Manager Karie Friling.
Jorgensen served as the Interim City Manager for three months immediately prior to Friling beginning her position.
“During the several months when I was preparing to begin this new role, Jennifer and I worked closely together on many of the City’s priorities,” said City Manager Friling. “We have developed a strong working relationship built on a foundation of mutual respect and trust, and I’m confident she’ll help provide the best support for the City Commission, administration, community and public.”
As Deputy City Manager, Jorgensen will oversee the day-to-day operations of Information Technology, Homelessness Response, Public Works, Utilities and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall while continuing to manage Procurement, Grants, Special Events and Governmental Affairs.
“It’s an honor to step into this role and continue serving the City of Sarasota community,” said Deputy City Manager Jorgensen. “Thank you to Karie Friling for giving me the opportunity and the City Commission for welcoming me into the administration. We have an incredible, hard-working team throughout the entire organization and I look forward to working with the City Manager to continue building on that foundation.”
Jorgensen was hired in January 2023 as the Governmental Relations Manager then promoted to Director of Governmental Affairs in December 2023. She was appointed by the City Commission to serve as Interim City Manager from March 6 to May 29, 2026.
Prior to joining the City of Sarasota, Jorgensen worked for the Walt Disney Company as a Business Affairs Manager and Manager of Vendor Management for over six years. She also worked as legal counsel and lobbyist for the Nebraska School Board Association and held various leadership and fundraising positions in higher education and the non-profit sector.
Jorgensen earned a Juris Doctor with distinction from the University of Nebraska College of Law. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in speech communication from the University of Minnesota.
Media Contact: News@sarasotafl.gov
Jennifer Jorgensen
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About the City of Sarasota: The City of Sarasota is a diverse and inclusive community located on Florida’s Suncoast with 55,000 year-round residents, internationally recognized cultural arts venues, stunning sunsets along Lido Beach, restored Donald Ross-designed municipal golf course, and Major League spring training baseball with the Baltimore Orioles. Learn more about us at www.SarasotaFL.Gov
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