Knox County, Tennessee Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Knox County, Tennessee has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Dedicated to public service and efficient governance, Knox County, Tennessee drives economic development and enhances community well-being through strategic leadership and fiscal responsibility.

Leadership Roles at Knox County, Tennessee

  • Chief Executive Officer - Cheryl Sutton
  • Chief Financial Officer - Cendy Joslin
  • Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff - Chris Caldwell
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Krissy Gladders
  • Cheryl Sutton - Chief Executive Officer

    Cheryl Sutton, the Chief Executive Officer at Knox County, Tennessee, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the county government. This leadership role involves setting policy priorities, fostering intergovernmental relations, and ensuring alignment with the community's needs and state mandates. Overseeing all county departments, Cheryl Sutton drives initiatives focused on economic growth, public safety, and infrastructure development. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to managing the county's budget, resource allocation, and long-term planning to enhance the quality of life for residents across Tennessee. This executive ensures the effective delivery of essential public services, maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency in all governmental functions. Cheryl Sutton's strategic guidance shapes the county's future trajectory, focusing on sustainable development and community engagement.

    Cendy Joslin - Chief Financial Officer

    Cendy Joslin, the Chief Financial Officer at Knox County, Tennessee, manages the fiscal health and financial operations of the county government. This critical role involves developing and implementing sound financial policies, overseeing budgeting processes, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations. Cendy Joslin directs the management of county assets, revenue collection, and expenditure control, safeguarding public funds. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial planning, forecasting, and reporting, providing essential data for strategic decision-making. By optimizing financial resources, Cendy Joslin supports the county's mission to deliver essential services efficiently and effectively. This executive ensures the financial stability and integrity of Knox County, Tennessee, facilitating sustainable growth and operational excellence across all departments.

    Chris Caldwell - Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff

    Chris Caldwell, the Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff at Knox County, Tennessee, executes dual responsibilities critical to the county's governance and financial management. This executive oversees the comprehensive financial strategy, including budgeting, revenue management, and fiscal planning, ensuring the sound allocation of public resources. Concurrently, as Co Chief of Staff, Chris Caldwell collaborates on strategic initiatives, operational efficiency, and interdepartmental coordination, supporting the Chief Executive Officer's vision. This dual role demands a deep understanding of both financial intricacies and the operational dynamics of local government. Chris Caldwell drives initiatives that enhance fiscal discipline while advancing key policy objectives across Tennessee. The executive's leadership ensures seamless integration between financial stewardship and the execution of the county's strategic agenda, promoting accountability and effective service delivery.

    Krissy Gladders - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Krissy Gladders, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Knox County, Tennessee, supports the Chief Executive Officer in executing strategic priorities and managing daily operations. This role involves coordinating departmental efforts, facilitating communication across government functions, and ensuring the smooth implementation of county policies and projects. Krissy Gladders assists in overseeing key initiatives, driving operational improvements, and enhancing inter-agency collaboration to achieve the county's objectives. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a vital part in maintaining organizational efficiency and supporting the leadership team's decision-making processes. By managing critical projects and ensuring alignment with the county's mission, Krissy Gladders contributes significantly to the effective governance and service delivery within Knox County, Tennessee. This executive's focus is on operational excellence and strategic support for the county's growth and community development.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Knox County, Tennessee Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Knox County, Tennessee?
    Knox County, Tennessee is led by Cheryl Sutton (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Cendy Joslin (Chief Financial Officer) and Chris Caldwell (Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Knox County, Tennessee’s executive team?
    The executive team of Knox County, Tennessee includes leaders such as Cheryl Sutton (Chief Executive Officer), Cendy Joslin (Chief Financial Officer), Chris Caldwell (Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Knox County, Tennessee have?
    Knox County, Tennessee has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Knox County, Tennessee’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Knox County, Tennessee includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Co Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff.