Jarrett named city’s Director of Operations, Communications
MADISON – A workday for Amanda Jarrett can include operational strategy, fostering collaboration with community partners and advancing key priorities that will shape Madison’s future. Jarrett has accepted the position for Director of Operations and Communications for the City of Madison.
“My role includes developing and executing the city’s strategic communications plan; overseeing grant management and external affairs; supervising the legislative liaison at local, state and federal levels; and leveraging data and market analysis to inform strategic decision-making,” Jarrett said.
Her job’s most exciting factor is “the chance to work at the intersection of policy and implementation, translating the mayor’s goals into tangible outcomes. Ultimately, this isn’t just a job to me …it’s a chance to serve a place I care about deeply, work alongside people committed to progress and tackle meaningful problems that will shape Madison’s trajectory for years to come,” Jarrett said.
A Madison native, Jarrett is deeply proud of her hometown and graduating from Bob Jones High School. “Having watched this city evolve over the years, I feel a strong personal investment in its future. Serving Madison during this pivotal period of growth is especially meaningful to me . . . I want to be part of shaping what comes next, not just observing,” she said.
Jarrett closely followed 2025’s municipal election. “I was genuinely energized by Mayor Bartlett’s victory. (The mayor’s) priorities resonate with me. I see this role as a unique opportunity to contribute directly to realizing that vision for Madison.”
Jarrett’s previous jobs include Director of Marketing and Communications, National Children’s Advocacy Center in Huntsville; and various roles at WAFF 48 News Huntsville, including Executive Producer, Assignment Manager and Newscast Producer.
Jarrett reports directly to Bartlett and supervises two Communications and External Affairs Officers and the Economic and External Affairs Officer.
In addition, Jarrett interacts with department heads to streamline services, coordinate policy development and manage projects with external service providers for Madison residents.
Jarrett’s job title shows ‘communications’ and ‘operations’ are interconnected. “Neither can succeed in isolation,” Jarrett said. “Effective operations depend on clear communication. Without strong communication, even the best operational plans can falter.”
“Conversely, meaningful communication must be grounded in operational realities. Understanding how an organization actually functions — including its workflows, constraints, decision-making and pressure points — is what separates strategic messaging from talking points,” Jarrett said.
Jarrett earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Alabama and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She also holds accreditation in public relations from the Universal Accreditation Board.
“With a new mayor and a largely new City Council, innovative ideas and energy are shaping the city’s future,” Jarrett said. “Economic opportunities are abundant, whether you’re building a career or starting a business. Our schools continue to shine with strong academics and long-standing community support.”
Her husband Shawn Jarrett works as a commercial videographer and drone pilot. They own Mac, a beagle mix, and Tex, a large, orange cat. The Jarretts are “the proud, fun aunt and uncle” to one nephew and two nieces.
Amanda loves music and concerts, kayaking and hiking, reading, traveling and watching football.
