Jefferson Parish Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Jefferson Parish has 6 executives leading key functions including administration, operations, finance, and governance.

Serving the citizens of Louisiana, Jefferson Parish is dedicated to efficient public service and community development, guided by a philosophy of transparent and responsive leadership.

Leadership Roles at Jefferson Parish

  • Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer - Carmen Benitez
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Cherreen Gegenheimer
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Natatie Newton
  • President - Cynthia Lee
  • Jefferson Parish President - Cynthia Sheng
  • Chief of Staff - Terry Talamo
  • Carmen Benitez - Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer

    Carmen Benitez, the Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer at Jefferson Parish, directs all financial operations and fiscal management. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, Benitez ensures the fiscal health and stability of the parish. This critical role involves managing public funds with integrity and transparency, adhering to all regulatory requirements. By implementing sound financial strategies, Carmen Benitez directly safeguards the parish's economic resources. The Accountant II - Chief Financial Officer provides essential financial guidance to leadership, supporting strategic decision-making and long-term planning. Benitez's expertise is fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources for community development and services.

    Cherreen Gegenheimer - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Cherreen Gegenheimer, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Jefferson Parish, oversees critical operational functions and service delivery. Managing day-to-day activities, Gegenheimer ensures the effective execution of public works and infrastructure projects. This position involves coordinating with various departments to maintain essential services across the parish. By implementing operational improvements, Cherreen Gegenheimer directly contributes to the efficiency and responsiveness of governmental operations. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer focuses on streamlining processes and enhancing the quality of services provided to the community, supporting the parish's mission of robust public administration. Gegenheimer's leadership ensures the smooth functioning of the parish's physical and service-oriented infrastructure.

    Natatie Newton - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Natatie Newton, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Jefferson Parish, manages key aspects of public service delivery and operational strategy. Focusing on enhancing community programs and resource management, Newton ensures that parish services meet resident needs effectively. This role involves driving initiatives that improve operational performance and citizen engagement across both the West Bank and East Bank areas. By fostering collaboration among operational teams, Natatie Newton directly supports the parish's commitment to excellence in public administration. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer plays a vital part in the strategic planning and execution of projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents. Newton's efforts are central to maintaining and advancing the parish's operational capabilities.

    Cynthia Lee - President

    Cynthia Lee, the President at Jefferson Parish, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire parish government. Overseeing all governmental functions, Lee champions initiatives aimed at community growth and resident well-being. This position involves setting the overall vision and ensuring effective governance across all departments. By fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders, Cynthia Lee directly advances the parish's objectives. The President leads policy development and ensures the efficient administration of public services, guiding the parish toward its established goals. Lee's leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of Jefferson Parish and enhancing its service delivery capabilities.

    Cynthia Sheng - Jefferson Parish President

    Cynthia Sheng, the Jefferson Parish President, leads the parish government with a focus on strategic planning and public service enhancement. Directing all administrative and operational activities, Sheng ensures the effective implementation of policies and programs designed to benefit residents. This executive role involves fostering collaboration among departments and external agencies to achieve shared goals. By driving innovation in public administration, Cynthia Sheng directly improves the efficiency and impact of parish services. The Jefferson Parish President is committed to transparent governance and community engagement, working to address the evolving needs of the parish. Sheng's leadership is pivotal in advancing the parish's mission and strengthening its community fabric.

    Terry Talamo - Chief of Staff

    Terry Talamo, the Chief of Staff at Jefferson Parish, directs administrative operations and strategic initiatives. Overseeing departmental coordination, Talamo ensures alignment with the Parish President's vision. This leadership role involves managing intergovernmental relations and facilitating communication across all public service sectors. By optimizing resource allocation, Terry Talamo directly supports the efficient delivery of essential services to residents. The Chief of Staff drives policy implementation and monitors progress on key community projects, ensuring operational continuity and strategic execution across the parish's West Bank and East Bank divisions. Talamo's focus remains on enhancing governmental efficiency and fostering a collaborative environment for public servants.

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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 Natatie Newton (Deputy Chief Operating Officer).
    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), Natatie Newton (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Jefferson Parish have?
    Jefferson Parish has 6 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, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, President, Jefferson Parish President.