Dallas County Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Dallas County has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, technology, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Dallas County provides essential government services, administering public health, legal systems, and community resources to residents across 30 municipalities, solidifying its role as a vital local government entity in Texas.

Leadership Roles at Dallas County

  • President - Mary Rittling
  • Chief of Staff - Lauren Trimble
  • Chief Information Officer - John Hennessey
  • Chief Technology Officer - Sankar Panneerselvam
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Louis Burrell
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Elva Rodriguez
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Elva Curl
  • Mary Rittling - President

    Mary Rittling, the President at Dallas County, leads the strategic vision and overall governance of the county's public services. Overseeing the executive leadership team, Mary Rittling ensures alignment with the county's mission to serve its residents effectively. This pivotal role involves guiding policy development and fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders. By directing the county's administrative and operational frameworks, the President ensures the efficient delivery of essential services, including public health and legal systems. Rittling's leadership is fundamental to Dallas County's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens across 30 municipalities.
    Mary Rittling

    Lauren Trimble - Chief of Staff

    Lauren Trimble, the Chief of Staff at Dallas County, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across county departments. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Lauren Trimble ensures the efficient execution of the county's public service mandate. This leadership position involves coordinating interdepartmental efforts to enhance community resource delivery and optimize public health programs. By managing key projects, the Chief of Staff supports the county's mission to serve its residents effectively. The role requires close collaboration with other executive leaders to drive policy implementation and operational improvements throughout Dallas County's extensive service area.

    John Hennessey - Chief Information Officer

    John Hennessey, the Chief Information Officer at Dallas County, architects the county's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all information technology operations, John Hennessey ensures the security, reliability, and scalability of systems supporting public services. This role involves managing the implementation of innovative technological solutions to enhance government efficiency and citizen engagement. By directing the IT department, the Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation initiatives critical to modernizing county operations. John Hennessey's leadership ensures that Dallas County leverages technology to better administer legal systems, public health services, and community resources across its vast service region.

    Sankar Panneerselvam - Chief Technology Officer

    Sankar Panneerselvam, the Chief Technology Officer at Dallas County, spearheads the development and deployment of advanced technological solutions. Overseeing the county's technology roadmap, Sankar Panneerselvam drives innovation in areas such as data management and system integration. This executive position focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve the delivery of essential public services, including healthcare and legal affairs. By guiding technology strategy, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that Dallas County remains at the forefront of digital governance. Panneerselvam's expertise is crucial for enhancing the operational capabilities of departments managing public health and community resources.

    Louis Burrell - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Louis Burrell, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Dallas County, directs all human capital management strategies and operations. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and compensation programs, Louis Burrell ensures a robust and engaged workforce to support public service delivery. This critical role involves fostering a positive organizational culture and implementing HR policies that align with the county's mission. By managing employee relations and benefits, the Chief Human Resources Officer contributes directly to the operational effectiveness of departments across Dallas County. Burrell's leadership is instrumental in attracting and retaining the skilled professionals necessary for administering public health, legal systems, and community resources.

    Elva Rodriguez - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Elva Rodriguez, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Dallas County, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic priorities and managing daily operations. Overseeing specific project portfolios, Elva Rodriguez ensures the timely and effective implementation of county initiatives. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams and facilitating communication between departments to enhance service delivery. By assisting in the oversight of administrative functions, the Deputy Chief of Staff contributes to the overall efficiency of Dallas County's government operations. Rodriguez's efforts are vital in supporting the county's commitment to providing essential public services across its municipalities.

    Elva Curl - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Elva Curl, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Dallas County, assists in the strategic direction and operational management of county affairs. Overseeing key administrative projects, Elva Curl ensures the smooth functioning of departments responsible for public services. This position involves facilitating interdepartmental collaboration and supporting the development of new programs. By managing specific operational tasks, the Deputy Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in enhancing the county's capacity to serve its residents. Curl's contributions are essential for the effective administration of public health, legal systems, and community resources throughout Dallas County.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dallas County Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Dallas County?
    Dallas County is led by Mary Rittling (President), along with executives such as Lauren Trimble (Chief of Staff) and John Hennessey (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Dallas County’s executive team?
    The executive team of Dallas County includes leaders such as Mary Rittling (President), Lauren Trimble (Chief of Staff), John Hennessey (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Dallas County have?
    Dallas County has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Dallas County’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Dallas County includes roles such as President, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.