Cuyahoga County Executive and Leadership Team

William Whitney, the Chief Operating Officer at Cuyahoga County, directs the day-to-day operational activities of the county to ensure seamless service delivery. Overseeing the performance of core government functions, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes internal processes to maximize efficiency and reduce waste. This role involves managing cross-functional teams to execute large-scale projects that impact the entire metropolitan area. By implementing lean management principles, William Whitney improves the quality and speed of public services. The Chief Operating Officer monitors key performance indicators to ensure that all departments meet their operational targets. Through regular audits and process reviews, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for continuous improvement. This leadership position requires a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to high-quality service. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer strengthens the county by architecting a highly efficient operational framework that supports the effective delivery of essential services to the diverse population of Northeast Ohio.

Erik Janas, the Chief of Staff at Cuyahoga County, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication between the leadership team and various government departments. Managing the daily agenda of the executive office, the Chief of Staff ensures that strategic priorities receive appropriate attention and resources. This role involves synthesizing complex information from multiple sources to provide actionable insights for decision-makers. By fostering collaboration across the organization, Erik Janas aligns departmental activities with the overarching mission of the county. The Chief of Staff oversees special projects and manages high-level stakeholder relationships to advance the county's policy agenda. Through proactive problem-solving, the Chief of Staff resolves operational bottlenecks and maintains organizational momentum. This leadership position requires exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of the political and administrative landscape. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff drives the success of the executive team by architecting efficient processes that enable effective governance and consistent progress on key regional initiatives.

Sarah Nemastil, the Director I, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Cuyahoga County, leads the talent management and organizational development strategy for the entire workforce. Overseeing recruitment, training, and employee relations, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the county attracts and retains top-tier talent to serve the public. This role involves developing comprehensive compensation and benefits programs that remain competitive within the regional market. By fostering a culture of inclusion and professional growth, Sarah Nemastil enhances employee engagement and productivity. The Chief Human Resources Officer manages labor relations and ensures compliance with all employment laws and regulations. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer prepares the organization for future challenges and opportunities. This leadership position requires a focus on human capital and a commitment to building a high-performing team. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the county by architecting a supportive and effective work environment that empowers staff to deliver exceptional service.

Shawntaye McCurdy, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, manages critical administrative workflows to ensure efficient public service delivery. Overseeing departmental compliance, the Deputy Director aligns internal processes with the broader mission of the county government. This role involves coordinating with various agencies to streamline operations across the metropolitan area. By implementing rigorous oversight protocols, Shawntaye McCurdy maintains high standards of accountability within the organization. The Deputy Director monitors performance metrics to identify areas for improvement in service accessibility. Through consistent engagement with stakeholders, the Deputy Director supports the long-term stability of regional initiatives. This leadership position requires balancing complex regulatory requirements with the immediate needs of the community. Ultimately, the Deputy Director drives operational excellence by fostering a culture of transparency and responsiveness, ensuring that the county remains a reliable partner for all residents and businesses operating within the diverse landscape of Northeast Ohio.

Karen Anderson, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, directs strategic initiatives focused on community development and public infrastructure. Managing large-scale projects, the Deputy Director ensures that regional growth aligns with the economic goals of the thirteen-county area. This role involves collaborating with local leaders to secure funding and resources for essential public works. By analyzing demographic trends, Karen Anderson optimizes the allocation of county assets to meet evolving population demands. The Deputy Director evaluates project feasibility and monitors progress to guarantee timely completion of critical developments. Through proactive communication with the board, the Deputy Director secures support for long-term planning efforts. This leadership function requires deep knowledge of local government operations and a commitment to sustainable growth. Ultimately, the Deputy Director strengthens the regional economy by architecting robust frameworks that support infrastructure expansion and enhance the quality of life for all residents throughout the county.

Jill Smialek, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, oversees fiscal planning and budgetary management to ensure the financial health of the organization. Coordinating with department heads, the Deputy Director allocates resources to support core government functions and public programs. This role involves rigorous financial analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve operational efficiency. By maintaining strict adherence to budgetary guidelines, Jill Smialek protects the economic interests of the county. The Deputy Director prepares detailed reports for executive leadership to inform decision-making processes regarding capital investments. Through careful monitoring of revenue streams, the Deputy Director mitigates financial risks and ensures the sustainability of essential services. This leadership position demands precision and a forward-thinking approach to fiscal policy. Ultimately, the Deputy Director secures the financial foundation of the county, enabling the successful execution of strategic initiatives that benefit the entire Northeast Ohio region and its diverse population.

Anthony Perlatti, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, manages public safety and emergency response coordination to protect the well-being of the community. Overseeing inter-agency communication, the Deputy Director ensures that emergency services remain prepared for any potential crisis. This role involves developing comprehensive safety protocols that align with state and federal standards. By fostering partnerships with local law enforcement and health organizations, Anthony Perlatti enhances the resilience of the regional safety network. The Deputy Director evaluates response times and resource deployment to optimize the effectiveness of public safety operations. Through regular training exercises, the Deputy Director maintains high levels of readiness among staff and volunteers. This leadership function requires rapid decision-making and a deep understanding of public safety dynamics. Ultimately, the Deputy Director safeguards the community by architecting robust response strategies that ensure stability and security across the entire county during both routine operations and emergency situations.

Sylvia Pla-Raith, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, leads social service programs designed to support vulnerable populations and improve community welfare. Managing a diverse portfolio of health and human services, the Deputy Director ensures that residents have access to essential resources and support systems. This role involves coordinating with non-profit organizations and government agencies to expand the reach of social initiatives. By analyzing service delivery data, Sylvia Pla-Raith identifies gaps in coverage and implements targeted solutions to address community needs. The Deputy Director advocates for policy changes that promote equity and inclusion throughout the region. Through effective management of grant funding, the Deputy Director sustains critical programs that provide stability to families and individuals. This leadership position requires empathy, strategic vision, and a commitment to public service. Ultimately, the Deputy Director enhances the social fabric of the county by architecting programs that foster independence and well-being for all residents.

John DeMuth, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, directs technology integration and digital transformation efforts to modernize government operations. Overseeing the implementation of scalable IT infrastructure, the Deputy Director ensures that all departments have access to secure and efficient digital tools. This role involves managing complex software deployments and cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive public data. By streamlining internal workflows through automation, John DeMuth increases productivity and reduces administrative burdens. The Deputy Director collaborates with external vendors to procure innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the county. Through continuous monitoring of system performance, the Deputy Director maintains high availability for critical public-facing applications. This leadership function requires technical expertise and a focus on long-term digital strategy. Ultimately, the Deputy Director drives the modernization of the county by architecting a robust technological environment that supports efficient governance and improves the overall experience for residents and staff.

John Sobolewski, the Deputy Director at Cuyahoga County, manages environmental sustainability and land use planning to ensure responsible development across the region. Overseeing zoning regulations and conservation efforts, the Deputy Director balances economic growth with the protection of natural resources. This role involves coordinating with planning commissions to guide the future development of the county. By implementing sustainable building practices, John Sobolewski reduces the environmental impact of new infrastructure projects. The Deputy Director evaluates land use proposals to ensure alignment with long-term regional goals. Through engagement with community stakeholders, the Deputy Director fosters consensus on complex development issues. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of environmental policy and urban planning principles. Ultimately, the Deputy Director shapes the physical landscape of the county by architecting sustainable development strategies that preserve the natural beauty of the region while supporting a thriving and modern economy for all residents.