North Charlotte Today

Reenie Askew serves as an Assistant City Manager and the Chief Information Officer for the City of Charlotte. Learn more about her role and what she’s looking forward to in the new year in this month’s Fast Five.

1. Which part of the organization do you lead?

In my role as Assistant City Manager and Chief Information Officer, I’m responsible for providing strategic leadership in the area of community vitality, which means providing services that enhance our community in a positive way. The departments and programs in my portfolio include Community Relations, Charlotte Business Inclusion, Solid Waste Services, Charlotte Communication & Marketing, and Innovation & Technology.  All these departments play a crucial role in building and maintaining positive relationships between the city and residents. 

2. Why did you decide to work for the City of Charlotte? 

If I knew what I know today, I would make the same decision. I moved to Charlotte in 2019 for family reasons, but the icing on the cake was this great opportunity to lead the City of Charlotte Innovation & Technology department. Since joining the city, I’ve been appointed to Assistant City Manager (ACM.) ACMs play a key role in strategic planning, resource allocation and ensuring that all initiatives align with the city's overall goals and priorities. As a business executive, I’ve tried to see things through the eyes of the city’s many customers: employees, council, residents and partners.

3. What is the biggest organizational priority you’re working on right now? 

In my role, it's essential to foster collaboration and synergy among departments to achieve a holistic approach to community development. Additionally, staying abreast of emerging trends in community development, technology and inclusive practices are vital to successfully aligning with city priorities.

Technology enables us to implement technological solutions, smart city initiatives, and innovative approaches to enhance services and improve overall efficiency.  As the Chief Information Officer, I initiated the largest business transformation project in its history with the implementation of WorkDay as our enterprise resource planning system. Employees will recognize this as our WorkSmart initiative. This business transformation aligns with the city’s well-managed government strategic goal, emphasizing best practice processes and procedures, increased data transparency, and digital business capabilities.

4. What is your favorite part about working for the City of Charlotte?

With any organization culture is everything. From the time I joined the city until now, I’ve felt welcomed, valued and appreciated.

5. What is your favorite restaurant in Charlotte?

Oh wow!  There are so many.  I’m a brunch lover, so my two favorite places to eat brunch are Napa on Providence and Link & Pin. The duck confit and waffles at Napa on Providence is absolutely fabulous. One of my other favorites is Jinya, a minority-owned ramen bar with locations in Uptown and South Park. It's so good!

BONUS QUESTION: With it being a new year, what is something you are looking forward to this year?

The beginning of the year is a time for reflection. Although I don’t do resolutions that I’ll only feel guilty about breaking later, I like personal affirmations. So here are mine: Show up as the best spouse, parent, grandparent and friend. Be an example leader and coworker. Prioritize “me” time without guilt. Stay open to growth opportunities.

Original source can be found here.