Agile Design for Exceptional Public Service with John Power

Host Joe Walker sits down with  Alachua County tax collector John Power, to discuss the importance of providing excellent customer service and the impact of agile design on public facilities and employee satisfaction. John's journey to being elected into public office highlights the significance of nurturing individuals within any business or organization. He emphasizes the need for creating a positive environment for employees and customers, and how investing in physical infrastructure is just as crucial as investing in software for businesses. The discussion delves into the tangible impact of well-designed facilities on employee morale, customer experience, and the organization's operational efficiency, underscoring the interplay between physical space and organizational success.

John shares the comprehensive approach of the tax collector's office in addressing the diverse needs of its clientele and the importance of training employees to provide empathetic and compassionate service. The episode also touches upon John's unconventional path to becoming a tax collector and the office's philosophy of making fact-based decisions to move projects forward. The conversation concludes with John discussing the significance of good facilities, well-trained employees, and the importance of treating employees well for retaining and nurturing a high-performing team.

Key Takeaways: 

Employee satisfaction and the working environment: John emphasizes the crucial role of the physical workspace in influencing employee attitudes, performance, and retention. 

Focus on excellent customer service and public interactions: John and Joe talk about the importance of providing efficient, compassionate, and respectful service to a diverse clientele. 

Agile design methodology and organizational excellence: They highlight the application of agile design methodology in creating inclusive, efficient, and enjoyable workspaces. John's office's focus on organizational excellence, including the Sterling Award for eight years, reflects their commitment to providing exceptional service.

About John Power, Alachua County Tax Collector:

John Power has dedicated his career to public service, serving as Alachua County Tax Collector for 10 years, and previously as Chief Deputy Tax Collector for 14 years. With 33 years of experience in tax roll in Alachua County, he is committed to delivering public service with integrity, innovation, fiscal responsibility, and respect.

Under his leadership, the Tax Collector's office adopted the Sterling Management System, earning the Governor's Sterling Award for Organizational Excellence in 2022. John's policies have enhanced the office's efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and customer service, earning the Legacy Award for Financial Excellence annually since 2016. The office has maintained a clean audit for 21 years, processing over $400 million and serving over half a million customers annually.

John has been a leader in the Florida Tax Collectors Association, serving on its Board of Directors and in other key roles. He is also active in the Gainesville/Alachua County community, participating in various charitable initiatives.

A University of Florida alum with a Master’s from the College of Business and a Bachelor’s in Public Relations, John is a Certified Public Manager, Certified Florida Collector, State Certified Appraiser, and Florida Real Estate Broker. He is a Leadership Gainesville graduate and a board member for Radiant Credit Union.

John lives in Melrose with his wife Linda and their animals.


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