Jefferson Parish Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Jefferson Parish has 5 executives leading key functions including administrative coordination, operational oversight, financial management, executive leadership, and regional governance.

Committed to public service excellence, Jefferson Parish maintains a robust framework for community development and infrastructure management across the Mississippi River, ensuring sustainable growth and efficient resource allocation for all residents.

Leadership Roles at Jefferson Parish

  • Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer - Carmen Benitez
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Cherreen Gegenheimer
  • President - Cynthia Lee
  • Jefferson Parish President - Cynthia Sheng
  • Chief of Staff - Clayton Tufts
  • Carmen Benitez - Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer

    Carmen Benitez, the Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer at Jefferson Parish, directs the fiscal strategy and budgetary planning for the entire government entity. Benitez manages the allocation of public funds, ensuring strict compliance with state and federal financial regulations. By overseeing the audit process, the Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal health of the parish and provides accurate reporting to the governing council. Carmen Benitez analyzes revenue streams and expenditure patterns to identify opportunities for cost savings and improved resource distribution. This role involves coordinating with external financial advisors to secure funding for major public initiatives. Through the application of rigorous accounting standards, the Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer protects the financial interests of the taxpayers. Benitez drives transparency in all monetary transactions, fostering public trust in government operations. Ultimately, the Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer secures the long-term economic stability necessary for the continued prosperity of the region.

    Cherreen Gegenheimer - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Cherreen Gegenheimer, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Jefferson Parish, manages large-scale infrastructure projects and public works initiatives across the region. Gegenheimer oversees the maintenance of critical systems, ensuring that municipal services meet the demands of a growing population. By coordinating with engineering teams, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer executes long-term capital improvement plans that strengthen the resilience of the parish. Cherreen Gegenheimer monitors project timelines and budget allocations to prevent delays in essential service delivery. This leadership position requires constant collaboration with other department heads to synchronize efforts on regional development goals. Through the implementation of modern operational standards, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer improves the quality of public facilities. Gegenheimer drives innovation in utility management and environmental safety protocols. Ultimately, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer ensures that the physical infrastructure of the parish remains functional, safe, and capable of supporting the economic vitality of the entire community.

    Cynthia Lee - President

    Cynthia Lee, the President at Jefferson Parish, provides executive leadership and sets the overarching policy agenda for the local government. Lee represents the interests of the parish in regional and state-level discussions, advocating for resources that benefit the community. By chairing council meetings, the President facilitates the legislative process and ensures that public concerns receive appropriate attention. Cynthia Lee drives the development of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety, economic growth, and community welfare. This leadership role involves building partnerships with private sector stakeholders to stimulate investment within the parish. Through the promotion of collaborative governance, the President aligns departmental goals with the long-term vision for the region. Lee monitors the progress of major policy implementations to ensure measurable outcomes for the citizenry. Ultimately, the President secures the political and social cohesion required to navigate the complex challenges of modern local government while maintaining a focus on sustainable development.

    Cynthia Sheng - Jefferson Parish President

    Cynthia Sheng, the Jefferson Parish President at Jefferson Parish, executes the administrative mandates and executive functions necessary for the effective governance of the parish. Sheng oversees the implementation of public policy, ensuring that all government actions align with the legal and ethical standards of the state. By managing the executive branch, the Jefferson Parish President coordinates the efforts of various departments to address the immediate needs of the residents. Cynthia Sheng drives the modernization of government services, utilizing data-driven insights to improve the efficiency of public programs. This role involves engaging with community leaders to identify emerging issues and developing proactive solutions. Through the oversight of inter-departmental projects, the Jefferson Parish President ensures that resources are deployed effectively across both the East Bank and West Bank. Sheng maintains a focus on long-term planning to prepare the region for future growth. Ultimately, the Jefferson Parish President secures the operational success of the government through decisive leadership.

    Clayton Tufts - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Tufts, the Chief of Staff at Jefferson Parish, directs administrative operations and coordinates strategic initiatives across all government departments. Tufts manages internal communications and ensures alignment between the executive office and various public agencies. By streamlining workflows, the Chief of Staff optimizes the delivery of essential services to the West Bank and East Bank communities. Clayton Tufts facilitates high-level decision-making processes, providing critical support to the leadership team during complex policy development. This role involves monitoring departmental performance metrics to ensure accountability and transparency in local governance. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational stability. Tufts drives efficiency by implementing standardized procedures that enhance the responsiveness of the parish government. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff secures the operational integrity required to support the diverse needs of the population while fostering a culture of professional excellence within the administrative structure.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Jefferson Parish Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Jefferson Parish?
    Jefferson Parish is led by Carmen Benitez (Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Cherreen Gegenheimer (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and Cynthia Lee (President).
    Who is part of Jefferson Parish’s executive team?
    The executive team of Jefferson Parish includes leaders such as Carmen Benitez (Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer), Cherreen Gegenheimer (Deputy Chief Operating Officer), Cynthia Lee (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Jefferson Parish have?
    Jefferson Parish has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Jefferson Parish’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Jefferson Parish includes roles such as Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, President, Jefferson Parish President, Chief of Staff.