Multnomah County Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Multnomah County has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, technology, operations, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Multnomah County provides essential government services, manages public health and social programs, and fosters community engagement across Portland and its surrounding natural landscapes.

Leadership Roles at Multnomah County

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Cora Bell
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Jeston Black
  • Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Stacy Borke
  • Chief Operating Officer - Multnomah County - Christopher Neal
  • Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Tracey Massey
  • Chief of Staff - Brendan Finn
  • Chief Information Officer - Simeon Ogle
  • Chief of Staff - Chair Jessica Vega Pederson - Jenny Smith
  • Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer - Art Thornton
  • Chief of Staff, Multnomah County District 3 - Bryan Hockaday
  • Cora Bell - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Cora Bell, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Multnomah County, supports the strategic financial management and fiscal oversight of the county's operations. Bell assists in developing and implementing financial policies, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This role is crucial for maintaining the financial health of the county, supporting its extensive public service programs. By contributing to sound financial planning and analysis, Cora Bell ensures that resources are allocated effectively to meet community needs. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in safeguarding county assets and promoting fiscal responsibility across all departments.

    Jeston Black - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Jeston Black, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Multnomah County, supports the execution of operational strategies across the county's diverse service portfolio. Black focuses on optimizing the delivery of essential community functions, including public health and social services, ensuring efficient resource deployment. This role involves collaborating with department heads to identify areas for process improvement and operational enhancement. By driving operational excellence, Jeston Black contributes to the county's ability to provide comprehensive government services to residents. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer's efforts are crucial in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of county-wide operations, supporting the overarching mission of public service delivery throughout the region.

    Stacy Borke - Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Stacy Borke, the Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Multnomah County, provides critical leadership in managing and enhancing the county's operational frameworks. Borke focuses on the seamless delivery of vital public services, overseeing key initiatives that improve efficiency and effectiveness across various departments. This interim position involves close collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer and other senior leaders to address immediate operational challenges and implement strategic improvements. By ensuring robust operational oversight, Stacy Borke supports the county's commitment to serving its constituents with integrity and responsiveness. The role is instrumental in maintaining continuity and driving progress in the county's extensive service network.

    Christopher Neal - Chief Operating Officer - Multnomah County

    Christopher Neal, the Chief Operating Officer - Multnomah County, directs the comprehensive operational strategies that underpin the county's extensive service delivery. Neal oversees the management of public health, social services, libraries, and judicial support functions, ensuring efficient and effective execution across all facilities. This leadership position involves driving operational excellence, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering collaboration among diverse departments to meet community needs. By implementing strategic initiatives, Christopher Neal enhances the county's capacity to provide essential government services to residents throughout Portland and the surrounding areas. The Chief Operating Officer's role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and responsiveness of Multnomah County's public administration.

    Tracey Massey - Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Tracey Massey, the Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Multnomah County, plays a key role in overseeing and optimizing the county's operational functions. Massey focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery across various public sectors, including social services and public health. This interim leadership position involves managing critical projects and ensuring seamless coordination between departments. By driving operational improvements, Tracey Massey supports the county's commitment to providing robust government services to its constituents. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer's contributions are essential for maintaining high standards of performance and responsiveness in county operations.

    Brendan Finn - Chief of Staff

    Brendan Finn, the Chief of Staff at Multnomah County, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across county departments. Finn oversees the coordination of key projects, ensuring efficient execution of the county's public service mandate. This leadership position involves managing interdepartmental communication and facilitating the implementation of policy directives. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows, Brendan Finn supports the county's mission to deliver comprehensive government services. The role demands a deep understanding of public administration and a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring that county operations effectively serve the residents of Portland and the wider region. Finn's focus remains on enhancing service delivery and fostering a culture of accountability.

    Simeon Ogle - Chief Information Officer

    Simeon Ogle, the Chief Information Officer at Multnomah County, architects the county's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Ogle directs the implementation of innovative IT solutions to enhance public service delivery and operational efficiency across all county facilities. This critical role involves overseeing cybersecurity measures, managing data governance, and ensuring the reliability of essential technology systems that support public health, social services, and judicial functions. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Simeon Ogle empowers county departments with the tools needed to serve constituents effectively. The Chief Information Officer's leadership ensures that Multnomah County remains at the forefront of technological advancement in local government, safeguarding sensitive information and improving accessibility to county resources.
    Simeon Ogle

    Jenny Smith - Chief of Staff - Chair Jessica Vega Pederson

    Jenny Smith, the Chief of Staff - Chair Jessica Vega Pederson, provides strategic counsel and operational support to the Chair's office at Multnomah County. Smith manages key initiatives, coordinates legislative efforts, and ensures the effective implementation of the Chair's policy agenda. This role involves close collaboration with county departments and external stakeholders to advance the county's mission of providing essential services. By streamlining communication and facilitating decision-making processes, Jenny Smith enhances the Chair's ability to lead and govern effectively. The Chief of Staff's focus is on driving strategic priorities and ensuring the efficient operation of the Chair's office, contributing to the overall governance of Multnomah County.

    Art Thornton - Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer

    Art Thornton, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Multnomah County, directs human capital strategies to support the county's workforce and operational objectives. Thornton oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring a skilled and motivated public service team. This role is critical for fostering a positive work environment and attracting top talent to serve the community. By implementing effective HR policies and initiatives, Art Thornton enhances organizational capacity and employee engagement across county departments. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership ensures that Multnomah County's personnel are well-supported and aligned with the mission of delivering essential services.

    Bryan Hockaday - Chief of Staff, Multnomah County District 3

    Bryan Hockaday, the Chief of Staff, Multnomah County District 3, provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for initiatives within the district. Hockaday manages key projects, coordinates constituent services, and ensures the effective implementation of district-specific policies and programs. This role involves close collaboration with community leaders and county departments to address local needs and advance the district's objectives. By facilitating communication and driving operational efficiency, Bryan Hockaday supports the delivery of essential government services to residents in District 3. The Chief of Staff's focus is on enhancing the district's capacity to serve its constituents effectively and promote community well-being.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Multnomah County Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Multnomah County?
    Multnomah County is led by Cora Bell (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Jeston Black (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and Stacy Borke (Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Multnomah County’s executive team?
    The executive team of Multnomah County includes leaders such as Cora Bell (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Jeston Black (Deputy Chief Operating Officer), Stacy Borke (Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Multnomah County have?
    Multnomah County has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Multnomah County’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Multnomah County includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer - Multnomah County, Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer.