Jana Potvin has returned to lead Salisbury’s Department of Field Operations, following a national search.

Potvin, a civil engineer, is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and former employee of the city of Salisbury, having spent eight years as a project engineer in the Public Works Department.

For the past seven years, Potvin worked for both the South Carolina Department of Transportation and the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration.

Most recently, she served as Assistant District Engineer for the Maryland SHA.

Potvin has extensive knowledge that will be critical in the next phase of development for the Field Operations Department. She will oversee the construction of a new administrative building and future phases of expansion on the Field Operations Campus, implementation of a new work order system, further focus on staff leadership development, and growth of a thorough cross-training program.

“I am excited to return to the city of Salisbury to serve as the Director of Field Operations,” said Potvin, who began work Tuesday. “The mission of this department is so important to me. With the support of my team, I hope to make the City an even more enjoyable place to live and work.”

City Administrator Julia Glanz said Potvin’s enthusiasm had left a strong impression during the hiring process.

“This is a coming home for Jana and we are so excited to welcome her back.  Her passion for her field of expertise is infectious,” said Glanz. “She brings an invigorating focus on employee wellness, both physically and mentally, that is crucial to having a healthy team. I look forward to working with her, and seeing her lead Field Operations into the new year and beyond.”

Potvin is the first woman to lead her department, and one of eight women in directorship roles within the City, joining her colleagues who run the Business Development, Purchasing, Human Resources, Infrastructure & Development, Water Works, and Police Departments, and the City Clerk.

“We were lucky to have a tremendously talented field of applicants for this position,” said Glanz. “By accepting our offer, Jana is doing more than taking the helm of one of our busiest departments – she is providing an example for the next generation of female leaders. I’m happy to say that Salisbury is once again proving that there is no glass ceiling in this organization.”

Potvin’s first official day on the job was Feb. 16.

She is replacing Director Tom Stevenson who announced his retirement in November after 32 years of service to Salisbury.

The Department of Field Operations is comprised of 13 critical divisions: Streets, Parks, Parking, Traffic, Utilities, Safety/Risk Management, the Salisbury Zoo, Sanitation, Fleet Maintenance, Carpentry, Materials Management, Marina, and Poplar Hill Mansion, with a budget of approximately $10 million and a staff of over 110 people.

The Department of Field Operations is tasked with ensuring Salisbury is welcoming and inviting to residents and visitors alike.