Dubuque Announces New Director of Strategic Partnerships

The City of Dubuque has announced its new director of strategic partnerships, according to a recent news release from City Manager Mike Van Milligen. Anderson Sainci, who currently serves as the City’s director of economic mobility, is expected to transition into the role in the coming weeks.

In the strategic partnerships role, Sainci will oversee Dubuque’s intergovernmental relations with county, state, and federal agencies and coordinate partnerships with private and nonprofit organizations. The position also manages government relations tied to policy, programs, and appropriations and oversees coordination of City grant applications.

“Anderson has the skills and abilities to achieve the many legislative goals the City is actively pursuing. He has built the relationships needed to keep open important lines of communications."

-Mike Van Milligen, Dubuque City Manager

The role is central to the City’s advocacy efforts, including Dubuque’s annual Washington, D.C., “fly-in,” visits from Congressional staff, and the annual state legislative dinner. According to City officials, the position is designed to help align funding opportunities and legislative priorities with goals set by the mayor and City Council.

Get our free mobile app

Sainci replaces Teri Goodmann, who retired in 2024 after leading the City’s partnership and legislative work. Since her retirement, Goodmann has continued to support the City’s federal partnerships as a consultant.

“It is an honor to work with Teri Goodmann knowing all she has done for our community. She has been both a mentor and a dear friend, and I look forward to deepening and strengthening relationships with our local, state, and federal partners to advance the legislative priorities set forth by our mayor and city council.

-Anderson Sainci, Director of Strategic Partnerships

Most recently, Sainci has led the City’s Office of Economic Mobility, where he oversaw implementation of the Dubuque Community Equitable Poverty Reduction and Prevention Plan. The program brought together City departments, neighborhood groups, and public and private partners to address poverty-related challenges and improve access to services.

Sainci has been employed by the City of Dubuque since 2012 and previously worked in departments including sustainability, information technology, economic development, and public works. He also serves on the Dubuque Community School Board and several local and regional boards.