Bowman takes job at City Hall

Jenna Bowman is leaving her post as executive director of the Rochester Downtown Alliance for a newly-created position with the city.

Bowman announced Friday that she has accepted the role of communications and engagement manager for the City of Rochester.

The position was approved as part of the 2018 budget process, and is intended to serve as a primary administrator and consultant for the city's community engagement, public information and internal communications.

"This role will allow greater capacity and consistency, which has been identified as a key priority for the City of Rochester," she said. "I look forward to both maintaining and building relationships with citizens, organizations and internal city team members.”

Bowman was hired following a nationwide search that began in February. She will report to Anissa Hollingshead, who serves a dual role as city clerk and communication director.

"More so at the local level than other levels of government, it is critical for residents to have the opportunity to be part of the work of their government," Hollingshead said in the announcement. "The city must be intentional in building its capacity to connect with its residents and stakeholders across this work, and dedicating this resource demonstrates the commitment of the city council and city administration to do so.”

Bowman, who was brought on by the RDA in 2014, will start her new position on July 26. Over the next couple weeks, she plans to work with the RDA's leadership team and staff to ensure a smooth transition.

“The RDA Board of Directors would like to thank Ms. Bowman for the dedication, service, and inspiring leadership she has provided over the past four years,” said RDA Board Chair Al Mannino. “She will continue to be an asset to downtown — and to the entire community — in her new role with the City of Rochester.”

Bowman said the RDA board will be providing an update on the search process for a new executive director in the coming days.