King County Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

King County has 10 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, administrative operations, information technology, and legislative support.

Committed to regional excellence, King County delivers essential public services while fostering sustainable community development and infrastructure resilience across the Pacific Northwest.

Leadership Roles at King County

  • Chief Financial Officer - Felix Amerasinghe
  • Chief Financial Officer, Dajd - Tami Schackman
  • Chief Financial Officer, Kcit - George Vida
  • Chief of Staff - Susan McCallister
  • Elections Department Chief of Staff - Kendall LeVan Hodson
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Innovation Officer - Grace Preyapongpisan
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Kim Cunningham
  • Chief of Staff - District Four, King County Council - Adam Cooper
  • Chief of Staff To King County Councilmember Sarah Perry - Elizabeth Hollingshead
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Linda Ridge
  • Felix Amerasinghe - Chief Financial Officer

    Felix Amerasinghe, the Chief Financial Officer at King County, directs the fiscal strategy and budgetary planning for the entire regional government. Overseeing the allocation of public funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and accountability across all departments. This leadership role involves managing complex revenue streams and optimizing expenditure to support public health, transportation, and environmental services. By implementing rigorous financial controls, Felix Amerasinghe maintains the economic stability required for long-term infrastructure projects. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive branch to align fiscal policy with the broader mission of serving residents and businesses. Through precise forecasting and resource management, Amerasinghe secures the necessary capital to sustain essential government operations. This position remains critical for maintaining the fiscal health of the county while addressing the evolving needs of the diverse population residing within the region.

    Tami Schackman - Chief Financial Officer, Dajd

    Tami Schackman, the Chief Financial Officer, Dajd at King County, manages the specific financial requirements and budgetary constraints of the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention. Overseeing the fiscal operations of the corrections system, the Chief Financial Officer, Dajd ensures that resources support safe and secure facility management. This role involves analyzing operational costs, procurement needs, and staffing expenditures to maintain compliance with legal and safety standards. Tami Schackman directs the financial planning necessary to provide essential services within the justice system while balancing budgetary limitations. By optimizing the allocation of funds, the Chief Financial Officer, Dajd supports the broader mission of public safety and rehabilitation. Schackman coordinates with other financial leaders to ensure that the department remains aligned with the county's overall fiscal strategy. This position requires meticulous oversight to guarantee that the corrections infrastructure receives adequate funding for effective and humane operations.

    George Vida - Chief Financial Officer, Kcit

    George Vida, the Chief Financial Officer, Kcit at King County, manages the financial health and budgetary planning for the King County Information Technology department. Overseeing the fiscal aspects of large-scale technology projects, the Chief Financial Officer, Kcit ensures that investments in digital infrastructure align with the county's strategic goals. This role involves managing procurement, vendor contracts, and operational budgets to support the delivery of reliable IT services. George Vida directs the financial analysis required to maintain and upgrade the technological backbone of the government. By optimizing resource allocation, the Chief Financial Officer, Kcit supports the development of secure and efficient systems that serve all county departments. Vida coordinates with other financial leaders to ensure that technology spending remains consistent with the overall fiscal policy. This position requires a deep understanding of both financial management and the specific needs of a complex, technology-driven public sector organization.

    Susan McCallister - Chief of Staff

    Susan McCallister, the Chief of Staff at King County, coordinates high-level operations and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Managing the daily workflow of the executive office, the Chief of Staff ensures that strategic initiatives receive proper attention and resources. This role involves bridging the gap between various departments to streamline the delivery of public services, including wastewater management and behavioral health programs. Susan McCallister drives organizational efficiency by aligning departmental goals with the overarching vision of the county government. By facilitating collaboration among agency heads, the Chief of Staff fosters a cohesive approach to regional governance. McCallister monitors progress on key policy objectives, ensuring that the administration meets its commitments to the public. This leadership function remains vital for maintaining operational momentum and addressing the complex administrative challenges inherent in managing a large-scale local government organization.

    Kendall LeVan Hodson - Elections Department Chief of Staff

    Kendall LeVan Hodson, the Elections Department Chief of Staff at King County, directs the operational logistics and administrative functions of the regional elections office. Overseeing the complex processes required for secure and transparent voting, the Elections Department Chief of Staff ensures that all electoral activities meet strict legal and procedural standards. This role involves managing departmental resources, coordinating staff efforts, and implementing technology to facilitate accurate ballot processing. Kendall LeVan Hodson drives the strategic planning necessary to maintain public trust in the democratic process across the county. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Elections Department Chief of Staff supports the timely execution of elections and voter registration services. Hodson collaborates with other county leaders to ensure that the department remains prepared for high-volume periods. This leadership position remains essential for upholding the integrity of local government and ensuring that every resident has access to reliable electoral services.

    Grace Preyapongpisan - Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Innovation Officer

    Grace Preyapongpisan, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Innovation Officer at King County, architects the digital transformation and technological advancement strategies for the regional government. Overseeing the integration of modern software and data systems, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Innovation Officer ensures that public services remain accessible and efficient. This role involves identifying opportunities for process improvement through automation and digital tools, enhancing the overall user experience for residents. Grace Preyapongpisan drives innovation by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technological adoption across all departments. By aligning IT infrastructure with the county's mission, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Innovation Officer supports data-driven decision-making and operational agility. Preyapongpisan collaborates with other leaders to implement scalable solutions that address the evolving needs of the community. This position remains vital for maintaining a modern, responsive government that leverages technology to solve complex public challenges.

    Kim Cunningham - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Kim Cunningham, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at King County, directs the comprehensive IT strategy and infrastructure management for the entire regional government. Overseeing the security, reliability, and scalability of digital systems, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures that all departments have the tools necessary to provide essential public services. This role involves managing large-scale technology deployments, cybersecurity initiatives, and data management policies. Kim Cunningham drives the modernization of government operations by implementing robust IT solutions that enhance efficiency and accessibility. By aligning technology investments with the county's mission, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer supports the delivery of high-quality services to residents and businesses. Cunningham collaborates with other executive leaders to ensure that the digital environment remains secure and responsive to the needs of the community. This position remains critical for maintaining the technological foundation of the county.

    Adam Cooper - Chief of Staff - District Four, King County Council

    Adam Cooper, the Chief of Staff - District Four, King County Council at King County, manages the legislative and administrative operations for the District Four council office. Overseeing the policy development and constituent services, the Chief of Staff - District Four, King County Council ensures that the councilmember remains informed and effective in representing the district. This role involves coordinating with other departments to address local issues, such as land-use planning, roads, and public safety. Adam Cooper drives the strategic agenda for the office, facilitating communication between the councilmember and the community. By managing the daily operations and legislative priorities, the Chief of Staff - District Four, King County Council supports the overall mission of the county council. Cooper collaborates with other staff members to ensure that the district's needs are addressed through effective policy and advocacy. This position remains vital for maintaining a strong connection between the government and the residents of District Four.

    Elizabeth Hollingshead - Chief of Staff To King County Councilmember Sarah Perry

    Elizabeth Hollingshead, the Chief of Staff To King County Councilmember Sarah Perry at King County, directs the legislative and constituent affairs for the council office. Overseeing the policy research and community engagement efforts, the Chief of Staff To King County Councilmember Sarah Perry ensures that the councilmember's priorities are effectively communicated and implemented. This role involves managing the office's workflow, coordinating with other government agencies, and addressing the specific needs of the district. Elizabeth Hollingshead drives the strategic planning for legislative initiatives, ensuring that the councilmember remains focused on key issues such as housing, environmental sustainability, and public services. By facilitating collaboration and managing administrative tasks, the Chief of Staff To King County Councilmember Sarah Perry supports the effective functioning of the council. Hollingshead plays a central role in maintaining the relationship between the councilmember and the public, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of the community.

    Linda Ridge - Chief Administrative Officer

    Linda Ridge, the Chief Administrative Officer at King County, directs the internal operations and administrative functions that support the delivery of public services. Overseeing the management of facilities, human resources, and procurement processes, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the organization operates with efficiency and consistency. This role involves implementing policies that streamline government functions and improve the overall effectiveness of the administration. Linda Ridge drives the strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing internal processes and supporting the workforce. By coordinating across various departments, the Chief Administrative Officer fosters a collaborative environment that aligns with the county's mission. Ridge monitors operational performance and implements improvements to ensure that the government remains capable of meeting the needs of the residents. This leadership position remains essential for maintaining the administrative infrastructure that allows the county to provide a broad range of services, from public health to environmental management.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding King County Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads King County?
    King County is led by Felix Amerasinghe (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Tami Schackman (Chief Financial Officer, Dajd) and George Vida (Chief Financial Officer, Kcit).
    Who is part of King County’s executive team?
    The executive team of King County includes leaders such as Felix Amerasinghe (Chief Financial Officer), Tami Schackman (Chief Financial Officer, Dajd), George Vida (Chief Financial Officer, Kcit) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does King County have?
    King County has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in King County’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of King County includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Dajd, Chief Financial Officer, Kcit, Chief of Staff, Elections Department Chief of Staff.