Ingham County Executive and Leadership Team

Eric Thelen, the Chief Financial Officer at Ingham County, manages the comprehensive fiscal health of the regional government. Thelen directs the annual budget process, ensuring tax revenue allocation aligns with public service mandates across the county. By overseeing treasury operations and debt management, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability required for long-term infrastructure projects. Thelen collaborates with department heads to optimize resource distribution, reducing waste while enhancing service delivery for the population of 280,895. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing and compliance monitoring to uphold public trust. Through strategic financial planning, Eric Thelen secures the economic foundation necessary for regional prosperity. The Chief Financial Officer also coordinates with external auditors to verify the accuracy of financial reporting. Ultimately, Thelen drives the fiscal policy that supports the operational requirements of the county seat in Mason and surrounding areas.

John Jacobs, the Chief Financial Officer, Health Department at Ingham County, manages the complex budgetary requirements of public health initiatives. Jacobs directs the allocation of state and federal grants, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards for health service funding. The Chief Financial Officer, Health Department oversees the financial reporting for clinical programs, optimizing revenue cycles to sustain essential community wellness services. By monitoring expenditure patterns, Jacobs identifies opportunities for cost-saving measures without compromising the quality of care provided to the population. John Jacobs also collaborates with the broader county finance team to integrate health department data into the overall fiscal strategy. This leadership role involves managing vendor contracts and procurement processes for medical supplies. Through precise financial oversight, the Chief Financial Officer, Health Department secures the resources necessary to address public health challenges effectively across the entire county jurisdiction.

Deborah Miller, the President at Ingham County, directs the overarching strategic vision for administrative operations. Miller oversees the implementation of policy initiatives that impact the daily lives of residents, ensuring alignment with the broader mission of the county government. The President coordinates with the board and department heads to prioritize community development projects and public service improvements. By fostering inter-agency collaboration, Miller enhances the efficiency of government functions across the region. Deborah Miller also represents the county in regional partnerships, advocating for resources that support economic growth and social stability. This leadership role involves managing high-level stakeholder relationships and addressing complex administrative challenges. Through proactive governance, the President ensures that the county remains responsive to the needs of the population. Ultimately, Miller drives the strategic agenda that shapes the future of the county seat and its surrounding communities.

John Paolo, the President at Ingham County, manages the operational execution of legislative mandates and public policy. Paolo directs the internal management teams, ensuring that all departments adhere to the strategic goals established for the county. The President oversees the implementation of community outreach programs, facilitating direct engagement between the government and the residents of the region. By monitoring performance metrics, Paolo identifies areas for operational improvement and service optimization. John Paolo also coordinates with external partners to secure funding for infrastructure and public safety initiatives. This leadership role requires balancing competing priorities while maintaining a focus on long-term sustainability. Through effective management of human and capital resources, the President supports the delivery of essential services across the county. Ultimately, Paolo drives the organizational culture that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and excellence in all government operations.

Deborah Fett, the Chief Information Officer at Ingham County, architects the digital infrastructure supporting all government operations. Fett manages the cybersecurity framework, protecting sensitive resident data from emerging threats while ensuring system uptime for critical public services. The Chief Information Officer directs the modernization of legacy software, implementing cloud-based solutions to improve administrative efficiency. By overseeing the IT department, Fett facilitates seamless communication between county agencies and the public. Deborah Fett also evaluates emerging technologies to enhance data accessibility for residents across the region. This leadership role requires constant coordination with department heads to align technical capabilities with evolving service needs. Through the deployment of robust network systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that digital tools remain reliable and secure. Ultimately, Fett drives the technological transformation that enables the county to function effectively in a digital-first environment.