Evolve Magazine Features St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews in their “Women in Business” Issue

• 6 December 2024
• Category: SJC News

Evolve Magazine published the following article on November 20, 2024. It is republished with permission from its publisher.

Junyao “Joy” Andrews has 1,400-plus employees, an annual budget of more than $1.75 billion, and oversees critical areas like public safety, emergency management, growth management, economic development, community services, infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

But she isn’t the chief executive officer of a large corporation; Andrews is county administrator for St. Johns County.

“Operating a local county government has surprising similarities to running a business, but there are also core distinctions that make public service truly unique,” she says.

“At the heart of both, however, is a need for effective leadership, clear vision and a commitment to serve – whether that’s to residents or customers.”

Andrews became county administrator in late 2023 after she began serving as interim county administrator earlier in the year. She has been with the county for 18 years.

Her education includes a Master of Public Administration from Kansas State University and a Bachelor of Laws degree.e.r.g.e.d.in international commerce and trade law from Nanjing University’s School of Law in China.

In her role, Andrews oversees the county’s daily operations and ensures that the government provides effective, responsive and transparent services to residents and businesses.

“My responsibilities include implementing the policies and strategic vision set by the Board of County Commissioners, managing a diverse range of county departments, and working closely with community partners to address the evolving needs of our growing population.”

She does that by being an effective leader.

Mark Bailey, CEO of The Bailey Group, one of the largest insurance and benefits firms in Florida, agrees.

“Joy makes a difference when it matters most. Her empathy and compassion are not only felt but also contagious, fostering a supportive and uplifting environment,” says Bailey.

“Hard work comes naturally to her, and her determination is matched only by her grace and professionalism. Joy has a down-to-earth presence with an incredible ability to make everyone feel at ease, which only strengthens her skills as a master negotiator and collaborator.”

Bailey says it has been a privilege to work alongside her on key community projects that simply wouldn’t have come to fruition without her unwavering dedication and support.

Andrews says she accomplishes what she does with a methodology she has adopted over the years.

“My management style is deeply rooted in servant leadership and a collaborative approach. I value humility. I see myself as a supportive guide, empowering my team to excel in their roles,” Andrews says.

That’s done by fostering a culture of collaboration, incentivizing teamwork, minimizing ego and ensuring that decisions are focused on what’s best for the community.

“I also remain flexible in directing high-level decisions, encouraging a shared responsibility that leverages the collective strengths of our team.This approach not only values each team member’s contributions but also aligns everyone towards the greater goals of St. Johns County.”

Andrews also places a high value on fostering an organizational culture that emphasizes integrity and supports a healthy work-life balance.

Being a woman in the business world, including the business of running a government, has its challenges and its rewards.

“Running a county government as a woman comes with unique challenges, many of which echo the experiences of women in the business world,” Andrew says.

“In a leadership position within a traditionally male-dominated field, there can be added layers of scrutiny and expectations that must be navigated thoughtfully.”

She says among those challenges are establishing a work-life balance, balancing leadership style and establishing credibility

“All these challenges are also opportunities. Overcoming them requires a dedication to staying true to a leadership style that values people and purpose, even when that approach might be tested by stereotypes or societal expectations,” Andrews says. “The path isn’t always straightforward, but it’s deeply rewarding and full of opportunities to shape the community and inspire future leaders.”

And to young women who are inspired to take on leadership roles in business, Andrews offers advice.

“Trust your unique strengths and believe in your vision,” she says. “Women bring so many valuable qualities to leadership—empathy, resilience, a holistic perspective—that are crucial in both business and public service. Embrace these strengths confidently, knowing they can make a real difference.

She also notes not to be afraid to set high expectations and work toward them with intention, while staying true to personal core values.

“Above all, don’t feel like you have to do it all alone. Building a network of support—friends, colleagues, mentors—can help you navigate challenges and celebrate wins.

“Balancing multiple roles in life is an ongoing journey, and it’s OK to give yourself the grace to make mistakes and adapt.”