Steve Jones
Former Clinton City Manager Steve Jones has been hired by the City of Oak Ridge to provide economic development support services, with a particular emphasis on industrial and commercial recruitment.
The term of the support services agreement is April through October 2013. Jones will be paid $3,500 per month and will report to Oak Ridge City Manager Mark Watson.
“Steve was extremely successful as a recruiter during his 10-year tenure as city manager of Clinton,” Watson said. “With the advent of the Uranium Processing Facility project and the upswing in industrial activity in the region, the city will benefit from having a professional business developer focusing everyday on opportunities for Oak Ridge. I look forward to having Steve representing us at the regional and state levels.”
Jones has a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics with a focus on industrial engineering technology from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, having served as an electronic warfare systems specialist and in Operation Desert Shield and Proud Shield. He was awarded several medals, including the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal.
He served as Clinton City Manager from 2000-2010, and has since served has a private consultant, adjunct faculty member at Lincoln Memorial University, and as director of Southeast regional business development for RJ Lee Group, a materials science firm based in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Angi Agle says
Mark Watson is proving himself adept at hiring top-notch professionals. This is another really good one!
Sam Hopwood says
Agreed…. He has performed very well. Maybe his salary needs to be boosted from $135K up to $178K. What do you think??
Dave Smith says
Not that it really matters, but where did you get a “salary” of $135k?
Seven months (April-Oct) compensation at $3,500 per month is $24,500.
Sam Hopwood says
I was referrimg to Mak Watson.
Jason Allison says
I honestly hope he is able to reach the goals he was hired for.
Karen Eckel Bridgeman says
The success Steve brought to Cinton was matched only by his focus, determination and commitment to the job in the face of many challenges. Congratulations to the city for an excellent choice.