Should You Leave Local Government? Exploring Public-to-Private Career Shifts with Jacob Green | Ep.7 - Gov360

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Should You Leave Local Government? Exploring Public-to-Private Career Shifts with Jacob Green | Ep.7

June 24, 2025 • 69 mins

🔍 Episode Summary:

Are you burned out, questioning your future in local government, or wondering if there’s a more fulfilling path forward?

In this episode of Gov360, host Chris Mann sits down with Jacob Green, a former Assistant City Manager and now CEO of Jacob Green & Associates, to talk candidly about the growing trend of local government professionals transitioning to the private sector.

Drawing on decades of leadership in public service and private consulting, Jacob shares insights on salaries, pensions, stress, work-life balance, and what the pivot to consulting really looks like. This episode offers an honest, practical look at what’s driving so many seasoned professionals to explore life beyond city hall—and how to navigate the shift with clarity and purpose.

Whether you’re early in your career, mid-journey, or contemplating a new chapter, this conversation delivers the clarity and courage to take the next step in your local government journey.

💡 Key Learnings:

Why burnout, blurred governance roles, keyboard warriors and toxic political climates are pushing many out of public service
What types of opportunities exist for former city managers, department heads, and other local government professionals in the private sector
How private sector compensation structures differ from public sector pensions
Why success in consulting requires humility, curiosity, and client-first mindset
How to evaluate your personal and financial readiness before making the leap
What real work-life balance looks like on the other side—and what it doesn’t
Tactical advice for those considering a transition, including cultural fit and company research
Reflections from Jacob’s personal journey, including lessons from his traumatic brain injury and “brain school”