Lake County Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Lake County has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, information systems, finance, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Lake County focuses on acquiring and managing public open-space, ensuring its responsible use for the benefit of all residents.

Leadership Roles at Lake County

  • Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer - Angela Cooper
  • President - Phillip DeRuntz
  • Chief Technology Officer - Erik Karlson
  • Chief Information Officer - Christopher Blanding
  • Angela Cooper - Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer

    Angela Cooper, the Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer at Lake County, directs the financial operations and administrative services critical to the organization's mission. Cooper oversees budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility in the acquisition and management of public open-space in Lake County, Illinois. This leadership position involves managing all financial aspects of the Lake County Forest Preserve District, including revenue streams and expenditures. The Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with governmental financial regulations and best practices. By implementing robust financial controls, Angela Cooper safeguards the organization's assets and supports strategic decision-making. Cooper's oversight extends to administrative functions that streamline operations and support the board of directors' governance responsibilities, ensuring efficient resource utilization.

    Phillip DeRuntz - President

    Phillip DeRuntz, the President at Lake County, leads the governmental organization responsible for acquiring and overseeing public open-space in Lake County, Illinois. DeRuntz presides over the board of directors, guiding strategic initiatives and ensuring the effective management of the Lake County Forest Preserve District. This role involves representing the organization and fostering collaboration with stakeholders to advance the mission of preserving natural resources. The President's leadership ensures that the board's decisions align with the public interest and the organization's long-term objectives. By directing governance and operational oversight, Phillip DeRuntz champions the responsible stewardship of public lands. DeRuntz's influence shapes the direction of land acquisition policies and the utilization of these vital open spaces for community benefit.

    Erik Karlson - Chief Technology Officer

    Erik Karlson, the Chief Technology Officer at Lake County, directs the strategic implementation of technology across the organization. Karlson oversees the development and maintenance of all technological infrastructure, ensuring systems support the acquisition and management of public open-space in Lake County, Illinois. This leadership involves evaluating emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency and data security for the Forest Preserve District. By architecting scalable technology solutions, Erik Karlson ensures the organization remains at the forefront of digital capabilities, supporting its governmental mission. The Chief Technology Officer's purview extends to cybersecurity protocols and disaster recovery planning, safeguarding critical organizational data and public information. Karlson's focus remains on leveraging technology to optimize resource allocation and improve public access to information regarding the county's open spaces.

    Christopher Blanding - Chief Information Officer

    Christopher Blanding, the Chief Information Officer at Lake County, manages the information systems that underpin the organization's operations. Blanding is responsible for the integrity, accessibility, and security of all data related to land acquisition and public open-space management within Lake County, Illinois. This role involves defining IT policies and procedures that align with the governmental mandate of the Lake County Forest Preserve District. The Chief Information Officer ensures that information systems effectively support the board of directors and administrative services in their oversight duties. By optimizing data flow and system performance, Christopher Blanding enhances the organization's ability to serve the public and manage its resources efficiently. Blanding's strategic direction guides the integration of new information technologies to improve reporting and operational transparency.
    Christopher Blanding

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lake County Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Lake County?
    Lake County is led by Angela Cooper (Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Phillip DeRuntz (President) and Erik Karlson (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Lake County’s executive team?
    The executive team of Lake County includes leaders such as Angela Cooper (Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer), Phillip DeRuntz (President), Erik Karlson (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Lake County have?
    Lake County has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Lake County’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Lake County includes roles such as Director, Finance Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer.