Profile: Lisa Takata

When asked to interview someone who held a position that you aspire to, I was fortunate enough to schedule some time with Lisa Takata, Deputy City Manager of Phoenix. Initially scheduled for a brief 30 minute interview, we spoke in some detail for the better part of two hours. Discussing her career path, major accomplishments, the key variances in council-manager form of city government as well as many other topics, I found the interview to be most engaging and very informative. Lisa could not have been a better interviewee, allowing me to steer the questions in a variety of directions for far longer than the agreed upon time slot with no objection. While her opinions and insight on the position were of great value, I think what I'll take away from the meeting most was what kind of city official I hope to be: open, helpful, and after 20 years, still in love with my job.