Albemarle County Director of Community Development Jodie Filardo has announced her retirement, effective February 1, 2026. Her decision concludes a 47-year career that includes 24 years of public service in revenue management, economic development, sustainability, and community development, including six years with Albemarle County, as well as over 20 years in the private sector working in systems and process engineering and project management across the United States and around the world. 

“Jodie has brought a wealth of experience and perspective to Albemarle County,” said Deputy County Executive Ann Wall. “Over the last six years, she has not only led the Community Development team to improve services for our community but has also acted as a leader in the organization through her dedication to public service.”

Under her direction, Community Development advanced several major initiatives, including the launch of Civic Access, a web-based portal that provides residents and businesses with easier access to community development services; the implementation of the Enterprise Permitting & Licensing System; the adoption of AC44, the County’s Comprehensive Plan; and the department’s participation in the attraction of AstraZeneca’s $4.5 billion investment in Albemarle County. Under her leadership, the County secured significant grants, such as the RAISE grant for the Three Notch’d Trail.

Filardo's efforts strengthened local and regional partnerships and collaboration through leadership of and participation in the Land Use and Environmental Planning Committee (LUPEC) and quarterly outreach to the Blue Ridge Home Builders Association while expanding Albemarle County’s reach and reputation locally and throughout the Commonwealth. 

Filardo served as a member of the County’s internal leadership team, working closely with the County Executive’s Office and department heads to manage and operate the County government.

“Over my 47-year career in large private sector companies and multiple local governments, I’ve seen the remarkable work of people striving to make their communities better,” shared Filardo. “My time with Albemarle County has truly been the grand finale of my professional life.”

Albemarle County will begin the recruitment process for a successor in the coming weeks.