On August 1, 2024, I will cease to be the President of Jarrett Walker + Associates. I founded the firm and hired its current senior managers, but now it’s time for me to step back. Scudder Wagg, who has led our Arlington, Virginia office since its inception six years ago, will be our new President.
Our clients and collaborators probably won’t notice a big difference. The eight owners of the firm are also the senior staff, so the senior team that reports to the President is also the Board to which the President reports. We also take pride in having no external owners or investors looking over our shoulders. All this means that even as President I’ve been more of a coordinator, making big decisions only once it was clear that we had a consensus.
But Scudder is a better manager than I am, so I’m sure many things will improve. Over the last few years, people have occasionally asked me if I would apply for various CEO positions as they came open at public transit agencies. I was flattered, but I know that management isn’t my strength. I don’t really like being in power. I don’t like how people behave toward me when they see me as a power figure. I’d rather be the advisor than the executive.
New JWA President Scudder Wagg
So now I’ll get to do that. I will continue to be the lead planner on our biggest network design projects, and I’ll continue to teach and write. I am 62 now and expect to continue working part time for at least several more years. I look forward to many more great collaborations, and to spending less time thinking about management. Scudder will do a great job.
Congrats to you and Scudder! Its a sign of self-awareness and selfless leadership to pass the baton. Kudos!