Cuyahoga County Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cuyahoga County has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, administrative coordination, executive governance, and human capital management.

Focused on regional economic development and public service excellence, Cuyahoga County drives sustainable growth across Northeast Ohio through strategic infrastructure investment and community-centered governance initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Cuyahoga County

  • Chief Operating Officer - William Whitney
  • President - Ralph Capretta
  • Chief of Staff - Erik Janas
  • Chief Human Resource Officer - Sarah Nemastil
  • William Whitney - Chief Operating Officer

    William Whitney, the Chief Operating Officer at Cuyahoga County, directs all internal administrative functions and operational workflows. Overseeing the daily execution of county-wide service delivery, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that departmental resources align with the broader economic development goals of the Northeast Ohio region. This leadership role involves managing complex logistical frameworks to optimize public service efficiency across the metropolitan area. By streamlining inter-departmental communication, William Whitney directly impacts the quality of government services provided to the local population. Whitney maintains rigorous oversight of operational budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility while supporting the expansion of critical infrastructure projects. Through the implementation of data-driven management strategies, the Chief Operating Officer fosters a culture of accountability and performance excellence, ultimately securing the long-term operational stability of the county government.

    Ralph Capretta - President

    Ralph Capretta, the President at Cuyahoga County, provides executive leadership and sets the strategic direction for all county-wide governance and economic development efforts. Overseeing the legislative and administrative agenda, the President ensures that the county remains a competitive force within the Northeast Ohio economic landscape. This leadership role involves representing the county in high-stakes negotiations and fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders to drive growth and innovation. By establishing clear policy mandates, Ralph Capretta directly impacts the socioeconomic trajectory of the entire metropolitan area. Capretta maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, guiding the county through complex regulatory environments and public service demands. Through the promotion of collaborative governance, the President secures the necessary resources to support infrastructure and community development, ultimately strengthening the regional position of the county within the United States.

    Erik Janas - Chief of Staff

    Erik Janas, the Chief of Staff at Cuyahoga County, coordinates high-level strategic initiatives and manages the flow of information between executive leadership and various government departments. Overseeing the integration of policy objectives, the Chief of Staff ensures that administrative priorities remain consistent with the long-term vision for the Greater Cleveland area. This leadership role involves facilitating collaboration among senior officials to address regional economic challenges and public policy requirements. By managing the executive agenda, Erik Janas directly impacts the speed and effectiveness of decision-making processes within the county. Janas maintains constant communication with external stakeholders to advance regional development goals, ensuring that all administrative actions support the overarching mission of the organization. Through meticulous planning and organizational oversight, the Chief of Staff drives the successful execution of complex government programs across the thirteen-county region.

    Sarah Nemastil - Chief Human Resource Officer

    Sarah Nemastil, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Cuyahoga County, manages the entire talent lifecycle and organizational development strategy for the county workforce. Overseeing recruitment, retention, and professional training programs, the Chief Human Resource Officer ensures that the government maintains a highly skilled team capable of delivering essential public services. This leadership role involves designing compensation structures and performance management systems that align with the strategic goals of the organization. By fostering an inclusive and productive work environment, Sarah Nemastil directly impacts the operational capacity of the county to serve the Greater Cleveland population. Nemastil maintains oversight of labor relations and policy compliance, ensuring that all human capital initiatives support the broader mission of regional economic development. Through the implementation of modern workforce solutions, the Chief Human Resource Officer drives organizational efficiency and employee engagement across all county departments.
    Sarah Nemastil

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cuyahoga County Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cuyahoga County?
    Cuyahoga County is led by William Whitney (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Ralph Capretta (President) and Erik Janas (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Cuyahoga County’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cuyahoga County includes leaders such as William Whitney (Chief Operating Officer), Ralph Capretta (President), Erik Janas (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cuyahoga County have?
    Cuyahoga County has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cuyahoga County’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cuyahoga County includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resource Officer.