The city of Princeton has named John Land as its deputy city manager, citing his substantial experience in municipal leadership and strategic planning. The decision was made following a unanimous vote by the city council earlier this week.
Land’s career trajectory includes over two decades of progressive municipal experience, along with more than fourteen years in chamber executive roles.
Princeton, a fast-growing North Texas community in the northeast corner of Dallas-Fort Worth near McKinney and the 121 corridor in Collin County, says it is “poised for economic growth.” The city, which had a population of about 23,000 in 2022, more than doubled its population from 2010 to 2020, making it the county’s fourth fastest-growing, according to the DALLAS Newcomer and Relocation Guide.
City of Princeton Mayor Brianna Chacón
Mayor Brianna Chacón said Land’s “leadership and expertise, especially in economic and community development, will be exponentially valuable” to the growing city.
As Land steps into his role in Princeton, the city anticipates leveraging his experience and strategic insights to drive city operations and community engagement forward. His track record most recently includes a role as interim city manager in Farmers Branch.
“Throughout his career, [Land] has demonstrated exceptional expertise in leadership, team building, mediation, and strategic thinking,” the city said in a statement. “His proficiency in economic and community development has led to innovative spaces such as Mustang Station Restaurant Park and The Grove Outdoor Entertainment Venue.”
Land wore multiple hats in Farmers Branch city government
In Farmers Branch, Land served not just as interim city manager but also as deputy city manager and managing director of external operations.
According to an informal announcement by the city on LinkedIn, Land distinguished himself with significant initiatives that boosted both resident satisfaction and employee engagement, reflecting his adept handling of city governance complexities.
The city pointed to Land’s role in the adoption of a balanced scorecard performance measurement system in Farmers Branch. The system, which was launched in 2017, is recognized for providing a comprehensive framework to evaluate performance across various city departments, aligning with broader strategic objectives.
Consensus building, business interests, and community service
Beyond his municipal roles, Land’s foundation in chamber leadership included presidencies at both the Frisco and Farmers Branch chambers of commerce and a vice presidency in community development at the Midland Chamber of Commerce.
He’s also been a longstanding volunteer with the Farmers Branch Rotary Club, where he has been both an honorary lifetime member and a club president.
‘We are growing…and assembling a group of All-Stars’
In a statement, Mayor Chacón said she’s eager to begin working with Land and “looks forward to the positive impact he’ll have on our community.”
Land has hit the ground running in his new role as deputy city manager of Princeton with strategic engagements. In a LinkedIn post, Land shared a recent collaboration with city stakeholders. “What an honor to spend an afternoon with the GOAT of city managers, George Purefoy!” Land wrote, acknowledging a brainstorming session that also included Mayor Chacón, Ron Patterson, Princeton City Manager Michael Mashburn, and Development Director Craig Fisher.
Mayor Chacón’s own LinkedIn post detailed a comprehensive tour of Princeton alongside the leaders, focused on identifying the city’s potential and growth opportunities.
Chacón also underlined the city’s commitment to assembling a top-tier team for Princeton’s future development. “We are growing … and assembling a group of All-Stars to make sure we grow better, smarter, and wiser,” she said.
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