Bryan Jones named Assistant City Manager in Menifee

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Bryan Jones, who has a 25-year career in city government and the private sector, has been appointed Assistant City Manager in Menifee.

Jones replaces Rochelle Clayton, who left the City in April after five years. She spent almost the last six months of her employment on paid administrative leave during an internal investigation in which City Manager Armando Villa was also placed on leave. Villa was reinstated by the City Council on Feb. 12 and results of the investigation were never revealed.

Clayton was hired as Deputy City Manager at the City of San Bernardino, She was recently promoted to City Manager of that city.

In his role with the City of Menifee, Jones is to oversee several City departments, including Community Development, Public Works and Engineering, Economic Development, and the administration of the Fire Department & Fire Marshal Riverside County/CalFIRE contract. He previously served as City Manager in Eastvale from 2018-2022 and was most recently working in the private sector, where he “provided strategic leadership for land entitlement, economic and infrastructure investments, and real estate development in commercial retail, residential, industrial, and office sectors across numerous states and dozens of local municipalities throughout California,” according to a city news release.

Previously, Jones held leadership positions in Fremont, Carlsbad and Fresno.

“Bryan is an award-winning, visionary leader who inspires and engages those around him and empowers innovation and attracts investment to maximize results,” said Villa. “He has a unique understanding of the opportunities here in Menifee and his experience and talents will help us accomplish key priorities and objectives that will further strengthen Menifee’s overall quality of life.”

“Menifee is developing into a premier city and has garnered nationwide recognition for its innovative projects, business and investment opportunities, and desirable neighborhoods,” said Jones. “I am looking forward to working with City staff and the community to champion projects, programs, and amenities that will foster economic prosperity and job creation, and continue to elevate the great initiatives that allow Menifee to be a desired place to live, work, play, and stay.”

Jones earned a Master of Public Administration from Norwich University and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Davis. He holds several professional certifications, including a Professional Engineer (PE) license from the State of California, American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification, and a Professional Certificate in Public Engagement for Local Government from Pepperdine University.