A Conversation with Anne Ross

Longboat Key Assistant Town Manager Anne Ross, 43, leaves the town at the end of the month after 11 years for her new role as Lakewood Ranch executive director. Ross has become Town Manager Dave Bullock’s go-to person for major project responsibilities in her role as assistant town manager. A former town Public Works Department technical manager and town engineer, Ross has overseen approximately 38 town capital improvements projects worth a combined $22 million.

Were you actively seeking a town manager/executive director post?

No. But when this position came available, I had to apply. I live out east, and I always wanted to work for Lakewood Ranch. I’m looking forward to taking my talents and all the experience I’ve gained here to put it to good use where I live.

Why is the Lakewood Ranch Inter-District Authority executive director post a good career move?

I have a professional network of contacts already established in both counties. While Lakewood Ranch is mostly in Manatee County, road extensions and development has the community heading into Sarasota County. My experience with public works and infrastructure projects are a good fit. I love a good challenge of overseeing my community as it grows.

What’s the first thing you did after receiving your job offer for the Lakewood Ranch Inter-District Authority executive director post?

I called Dave Bullock and told him I got the job. Dave was the first person I spoke with when I heard about the job. He told me it would be a good career move.

How has Bullock’s confidence in you helped your career?

He’s more than a boss. He’s a mentor who taught me management philosophies. He shocked me with the news three years ago when he told me he had the confidence in me to become a (government) manager. It put a curve in my entire career path. 

What’s the biggest emergency you ever managed at Public Works?

A few years ago, a wastewater pipe burst under Gulf of Mexico Drive just north of Town Hall. The soil gave way, and it created a sinkhole. I was out here 48 hours straight with the operations guys giving the pipe stability while we oversaw its replacement.

The Public Works Department’s motto is “Whatever it Takes.” What have you learned working with that department?

I learned just as much from those guys as they learned from me. They are very hardworking and live that motto. The hours they put in and the sacrifices they make to keep the water and other services flowing behind the scenes is amazing. 

Describe your relationship with Public Works Director Juan Florensa.

Juan always keeps you laughing, even in tense situations. He is a mentor and a friend. I would say I’ll miss him, but he’s a Lakewood Ranch resident. So, I’m sure he’ll be bugging me about potholes or public works issues whenever he has a chance.

What will you miss the most about Longboat Key?

The people I work with and the scenic drive over the bridge.

What will you miss the least?

Gaining a couple hours a day from a smaller commute is pretty exciting. I can meet my husband for lunch, spend more time with my kids and even have some me time.