David Jones, Ankeny’s city manager, has been selected to become city manager of the city of Urbandale, the cities announced.

Jones, who begins his new role on Jan. 27, will replace A.J. Johnson, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Jones was among over 40 people from 19 states who applied for the position, according to a news release.

Jones “is highly respected throughout the Central Iowa region,” Urbandale Mayor Bob Andeweg said in a prepared statement. “With an impressive track record in strengthening financial conditions, overseeing transformative infrastructure projects, and driving economic development, he is uniquely qualified to lead our community into the future.”