Cuyahoga County Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cuyahoga County has 5 executives leading key functions including administrative strategy, operational oversight, human resources, and executive governance.

Committed to regional prosperity, Cuyahoga County drives economic development initiatives across Northeast Ohio while maintaining essential public services for the metropolitan population.

Leadership Roles at Cuyahoga County

  • Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer - Jon Reiss
  • Chief Operating Officer - William Whitney
  • President - Ralph Capretta
  • Chief of Staff - Erik Janas
  • Chief Human Resource Officer - Sarah Nemastil
  • Jon Reiss - Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer

    Jon Reiss, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at Cuyahoga County, directs the overarching administrative strategy for the regional government. Reiss manages the implementation of public policy across the thirteen-county region, ensuring alignment with the economic development goals of Northeast Ohio. By coordinating with the Board and various department heads, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer optimizes the delivery of essential services to the metropolitan area. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory frameworks to enhance operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Jon Reiss maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, driving initiatives that support the growth of the local government infrastructure. Through rigorous oversight of county-wide programs, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer secures the effective execution of public mandates, ultimately fostering a stable environment for the residents of the region.

    William Whitney - Chief Operating Officer

    William Whitney, the Chief Operating Officer at Cuyahoga County, manages the technical and logistical infrastructure required to support regional government operations. Whitney oversees the maintenance and development of public facilities and essential service delivery systems throughout the metropolitan area. By optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that county services remain efficient and accessible to the public. This leadership role involves coordinating with external partners to advance economic development projects across Northeast Ohio. William Whitney monitors performance metrics to identify areas for process improvement, driving the modernization of internal systems. Through the effective management of daily operations, the Chief Operating Officer supports the strategic goals of the county administration. Whitney maintains a focus on operational resilience, ensuring that the infrastructure remains capable of meeting the evolving demands of the region while upholding high standards of public service.

    Ralph Capretta - President

    Ralph Capretta, the President at Cuyahoga County, provides high-level governance and legislative oversight to ensure the effective functioning of the county administration. Capretta leads the deliberative processes that shape public policy and budget allocations for the region. By facilitating consensus among stakeholders, the President ensures that government actions align with the economic and social needs of the metropolitan area. This leadership role involves representing the county in regional forums and coordinating with other government entities to advance shared development goals. Ralph Capretta monitors the impact of legislative decisions on the community, driving initiatives that promote transparency and accountability. Through the exercise of executive authority, the President supports the implementation of long-term strategic plans that benefit the residents of Northeast Ohio. Capretta maintains a focus on civic progress, ensuring that the governance structure remains responsive to the challenges and opportunities facing the county.

    Erik Janas - Chief of Staff

    Erik Janas, the Chief of Staff at Cuyahoga County, coordinates internal communications and strategic planning across all government departments. Janas facilitates the flow of information between the executive leadership and the various agencies operating within the Greater Cleveland area. Overseeing the daily administrative workflow, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational priorities remain consistent with the broader mission of the county. This role involves managing high-level projects that require cross-departmental collaboration to achieve regional economic objectives. Erik Janas monitors the progress of key initiatives, providing the necessary support to maintain operational momentum. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff enhances the overall responsiveness of the government to the needs of the public. Janas maintains a focus on organizational excellence, driving improvements in internal governance and policy execution to support the long-term success of the county.

    Sarah Nemastil - Chief Human Resource Officer

    Sarah Nemastil, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Cuyahoga County, directs the talent management and workforce development strategies for the entire government organization. Nemastil oversees recruitment, employee relations, and professional training programs designed to build a high-performing public sector workforce. By aligning human capital initiatives with the strategic objectives of the county, the Chief Human Resource Officer ensures that the organization attracts and retains the talent necessary to serve the Greater Cleveland area. This role involves managing complex labor relations and fostering an inclusive workplace culture that supports the mission of the regional government. Sarah Nemastil implements policies that promote employee engagement and operational efficiency across all departments. Through the continuous improvement of personnel management systems, the Chief Human Resource Officer drives organizational growth and stability. Nemastil maintains a focus on workforce excellence, ensuring that the county remains a competitive and effective employer within the region.
    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 Jon Reiss (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as William Whitney (Chief Operating Officer) and Ralph Capretta (President).
    Who is part of Cuyahoga County’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cuyahoga County includes leaders such as Jon Reiss (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer), William Whitney (Chief Operating Officer), Ralph Capretta (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cuyahoga County have?
    Cuyahoga County has 5 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 Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resource Officer.