City of Roanoke appoints experienced urban planner to lead Planning, Building, and Development Department
Roanoke, Virginia – The City of Roanoke has announced that Jillian Papa has been appointed as the new Director of Planning, Building, and Development. With nearly two decades of urban planning experience and over ten years dedicated to serving Roanoke, Papa steps into this leadership role with a strong background in both community engagement and municipal operations.
Throughout her career, Papa has held several important positions, including zoning administrator, planning manager, deputy director, and, most recently, acting and interim director. Her academic accomplishments are equally impressive. She teaches at the master’s level at Virginia Tech and holds advanced degrees in Historic Preservation and Sociology.
Papa is a Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA) and a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). She actively participates in professional organizations such as the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) and the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials. She is also a proud graduate of the Batten Leadership Program at Hollins University and Leadership Roanoke Valley.
Beyond her professional roles, Papa is deeply involved in the Roanoke community. She serves on the Board of Directors for the United Way of the Roanoke Valley and acts as a member advocate for APA Virginia.
The city officials expressed strong confidence in her leadership, highlighting their belief in her ability to help shape “a vibrant and resilient community.”
