Jacque Russell, Human Resources Director, announced she’s leaving the City of Topeka in December after 16 years of service with the city.
Russell joined the city in July of 2007 as the Classification and Compensation Manager, before being promoted to HR Director in April of 2008. During her time at the city, she’s helped reshape the city’s benefits and wellness program for employees, worked collaboratively with city departments to improve recruitment and retention, and recently led the efforts to rollout a new onboarding system for new employees.
“Jacque has been an integral part of the city’s leadership team for 16 years. We will miss her experience, institutional knowledge, and all that she brought to her service of both our city employees and Topeka residents. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors,” said Interim City Manager Richard U. Nienstedt.
“I am so appreciative of all of the relationships and collaboration that I have been a part of across our organization. It has been an incredible opportunity to serve the City of Topeka over the years, and I close this chapter being proud of all we have been able to accomplish together,” said Russell.
Russell’s last day with the city will be December 1, 2023. In the coming weeks, the city will identify an internal employee to serve as Interim Human Resources Director. The city plans to conduct a nationwide search to fill the position on a permanent basis.