Park City names two new deputy City Managers

Heather Sneddon (left) and Jodi Emery (right) have been appointed as Park City’s new Deputy City Managers. Sneddon will lead housing and economic development efforts, while Emery will oversee operations, finance, and open space initiatives. Photo: Park City Municipal

PARK CITY, Utah — Park City Municipal has appointed Heather Sneddon and Jodi Emery as its new deputy city managers, filling two top-level vacancies aimed at advancing long-term strategic goals and supporting daily operations across the city.

City Manager Matt Dias announced the appointments this week, describing the dual hire as a deliberate step to match each candidate’s strengths with the city’s evolving needs. Both Sneddon and Emery will begin their new roles on April 21.

“As we continue to grow and adapt as a city, Heather and Jodi bring the skill sets we need to support our staff, residents, and partners,” Dias said. “Heather brings a sharp legal mind and valuable private sector experience to the organization. Jodi’s depth in daily administration and operations makes her an excellent addition.”

In their new positions, Sneddon and Emery will provide strategic support to the City Council and City Manager while working closely with department leaders, community partners, and residents.

Sneddon, a veteran attorney and former real estate professional, will oversee Housing and Economic Development, Planning and Engineering, Property, Building, and public-private partnerships. She spent more than 18 years practicing law at Anderson & Karrenberg in Salt Lake City, where she focused on complex commercial litigation and intellectual property disputes. She is admitted to the U.S. Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and holds a J.D. from the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law.

More recently, Sneddon worked in real estate with Summit Sotheby’s, gaining first-hand experience with local housing dynamics and redevelopment.

“I’m interested in municipal work because it offers an opportunity to be creative, find solutions to complex issues, and truly lift the community,” Sneddon said. “In joining the Park City team, I hope to make a meaningful and lasting impact on a place that so many passionate people are invested in.”

Emery, a Park City native, brings a background in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and operational management. Most recently, she served as associate dean for administrative operations at the University of Utah’s University Connected Learning division.

In her new role, Emery will oversee Human Resources, Information Technology, Finance, Trails and Open Space, and other core city functions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Master of Public Administration, both from the University of Utah.

“When this opportunity arose to work for my hometown, I knew I had to pursue it,” Emery said. “I’m excited to listen to and build relationships with Park City’s leaders, residents, and employees.”

Mayor Nann Worel praised the appointments, noting the diverse backgrounds both leaders bring to the city.

“Having their private sector and higher-ed expertise and passion for service will support our team, strengthen our professionalism and accountability, and help us realize our City Council and community goals,” Worel said.

Park City Municipal officials announced recruitment for the positions in December of 2024 following Deputy City Manager Sarah Pearce’s announcement that she planned to retire in April 2025 after five years with Park City.

Park City’s two deputy city managers oversee daily operations, advise the City Council and Manager, and support departments and community stakeholders.

According to Transparent Utah, the role currently includes a total compensation package of $256,576, with a $201,272 salary and $55,303 in benefits.