Mercer County, NJ Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Mercer County, NJ has 5 executives leading key functions including administration, operations, technology, financial oversight, and treasury management.

Committed to fostering regional growth and historical preservation, Mercer County, NJ drives economic development and public service excellence across a diverse landscape of education, research, and technology sectors.

Leadership Roles at Mercer County, NJ

  • Chief Financial Officer - Nicola Trasente
  • Chief of Staff - Sharon Shinkle Gardner
  • Chief Technology Officer - Lee Micai
  • Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer - Sharon Scott
  • Deputy Director - Manuel Iglesias
  • Nicola Trasente - Chief Financial Officer

    Nicola Trasente, the Chief Financial Officer at Mercer County, NJ, directs the fiscal strategy and manages the long-term financial health of the county government. Overseeing the development of annual budgets and capital improvement plans, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all expenditures align with the strategic priorities of the region. Nicola Trasente monitors revenue streams and evaluates economic trends to provide accurate financial forecasting for the Board. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous internal controls and ensuring compliance with state and federal financial regulations. By optimizing the allocation of public funds, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of parks, historic sites, and educational institutions. Trasente collaborates with other executives to assess the financial impact of new policy initiatives, ensuring sustainable growth. Through disciplined fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the economic stability required to maintain the county's reputation as a world-class center for business and research.
    Nicola Trasente

    Sharon Shinkle Gardner - Chief of Staff

    Sharon Shinkle Gardner, the Chief of Staff at Mercer County, NJ, directs the strategic agenda and manages the flow of information within the executive office. Coordinating high-level initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that all departmental objectives align with the overarching mission of the county government. Sharon Shinkle Gardner facilitates critical decision-making processes by providing the executive leadership with comprehensive data analysis and policy recommendations. This role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and representing the county in various regional forums to advance public interests. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, the Chief of Staff optimizes the performance of the administrative team. Gardner monitors the progress of key projects, ensuring that timelines and budgetary constraints remain strictly observed. Through effective communication and organizational planning, the Chief of Staff strengthens the operational capacity of the government, ultimately supporting the diverse needs of the local community and its residents.

    Lee Micai - Chief Technology Officer

    Lee Micai, the Chief Technology Officer at Mercer County, NJ, architects the digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks necessary for modernizing government operations. Overseeing the integration of advanced software solutions, the Chief Technology Officer drives the transition toward data-driven public service delivery. Lee Micai manages the deployment of scalable network systems that support critical research, education, and administrative functions across the region. This leadership role involves collaborating with other C-suite executives to identify technological gaps and implement innovative tools that improve citizen engagement. By securing sensitive information and maintaining robust IT systems, the Chief Technology Officer ensures the continuity of essential government services. Micai evaluates emerging technologies to maintain the county's status as a hub for innovation and technical advancement. Through the strategic application of digital resources, the Chief Technology Officer enhances operational efficiency and provides the foundation for future growth within the local government ecosystem.
    Lee Micai

    Sharon Scott - Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer

    Sharon Scott, the Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer at Mercer County, NJ, manages the treasury operations and oversees the liquidity of public funds. Executing the daily cash management functions, the Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer ensures that all financial obligations are met with precision and transparency. Sharon Scott monitors investment portfolios and coordinates with banking partners to maximize the yield on county assets while minimizing risk. This leadership role involves reconciling complex accounts and providing detailed reports on the financial status of the government to the executive team. By maintaining accurate records of all transactions, the Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer supports the integrity of the county's fiscal operations. Scott works closely with the finance department to ensure that all budgetary allocations remain within established limits. Through diligent oversight of the treasury, the Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer provides the necessary financial foundation for the county's ongoing development and public service initiatives.

    Manuel Iglesias - Deputy Director

    Manuel Iglesias, the Deputy Director at Mercer County, NJ, manages daily administrative operations and coordinates interdepartmental workflows to ensure efficient public service delivery. Overseeing the implementation of county-wide policies, the Deputy Director aligns departmental goals with the broader strategic vision of the regional government. Manuel Iglesias maintains rigorous oversight of operational standards, facilitating seamless communication between the executive office and various municipal agencies. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining bureaucratic processes, the Deputy Director enhances the overall effectiveness of local government functions. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the Board to address emerging community needs and maintain fiscal responsibility. Through proactive management of public assets and infrastructure projects, the Deputy Director supports the long-term prosperity of the region. Iglesias consistently monitors performance metrics to drive continuous improvement across all administrative divisions, ensuring that the county remains a competitive center for business and education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mercer County, NJ Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Mercer County, NJ?
    Mercer County, NJ is led by Nicola Trasente (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Sharon Shinkle Gardner (Chief of Staff) and Lee Micai (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Mercer County, NJ’s executive team?
    The executive team of Mercer County, NJ includes leaders such as Nicola Trasente (Chief Financial Officer), Sharon Shinkle Gardner (Chief of Staff), Lee Micai (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Mercer County, NJ have?
    Mercer County, NJ has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Mercer County, NJ’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Mercer County, NJ includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Temporary Chief Finance Officer & County Treasurer, Deputy Director.