Summary

Performance management strategist recognized for leadership

Story

Michael Jacobson, deputy director of performance and strategy in King County's Office of Performance, Strategy, and Budget, has been recognized for his professional contributions to the field of government performance management. Today, Jacobson was presented with the Harry Hatry Distinguished Performance Measurement Practice Award by the American Society for Public Administration's Center for Accountability and Performance.

"Michael's expertise in performance management has helped us create a culture of performance in King County, leading to greater efficiencies in the delivery of services," said King County Executive Dow Constantine. "I am delighted we can attract and retain high-quality professionals like Michael who are committed to public service."

The Harry Hatry Award is presented to an individual whose outstanding teaching, education, training, and consultation in performance measurement has made a significant contribution to the practice of public administration. The award recognizes a person who has made outstanding contributions on a sustained basis, rather than a single accomplishment. In addition, the award winner must have spent the primary part of their career in public service.

Jacobson is currently responsible for leading performance management activities at King County, including performance measurement and strategic planning functions. He has lead the County's efforts to be at the forefront of the performance management field by developing the County's AIMs High performance website, www.kingcounty.gov/aimshigh, managing the Executive's performance forum process, and initiating King County's first strategic plan. The County's work has received multiple national awards from the Association of Government Accountants and been profiled in numerous "best practices" reports.

Previous winners of the Hatry Award include Dr. Barbara Cohn Berman, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, Ted Greenwood, Allen C. Lomax, and Stuart Grifel.

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) is the largest and most prominent professional association in public administration with approximately 9,000 government and nonprofit administrators, scholars, educators, and students. For information on ASPA, go to www.aspanet.org/public.