Pierce County, Washington Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pierce County, Washington has 4 executives leading key functions including executive strategy, administrative operations, county infrastructure management, and organizational leadership.

Committed to regional development and public service, Pierce County, Washington delivers essential government programs, infrastructure maintenance, and community support systems to ensure a high quality of life for all residents.

Leadership Roles at Pierce County, Washington

  • Interim President & Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Pierson
  • Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive - Scott Nicholson
  • President - Bryce Nelson
  • Chief of Staff - Lana Weinmann
  • Thomas Pierson - Interim President & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Pierson, the Interim President & Chief Executive Officer at Pierce County, Washington, directs the overarching strategic vision for the local government organization. This leadership role involves coordinating with the county council to implement public policy, manage fiscal resources, and oversee the delivery of essential community services. Thomas Pierson maintains accountability for the alignment of departmental goals with the broader mission of enhancing public safety, transportation, and environmental management across the region. By fostering collaboration between various administrative branches, the Interim President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that public funds support sustainable growth and efficient service delivery. This position requires constant engagement with stakeholders to address evolving community needs while maintaining regulatory compliance. Through rigorous oversight of county operations, the Interim President & Chief Executive Officer drives the long-term stability of the organization, ensuring that all civic programs remain responsive to the diverse requirements of the population.

    Scott Nicholson - Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive

    Scott Nicholson, the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive at Pierce County, Washington, oversees the physical infrastructure, public works, and transportation systems that define the regional landscape. This role involves managing large-scale capital projects, environmental management initiatives, and property assessment functions to ensure the operational integrity of the county. Scott Nicholson directs the implementation of maintenance programs for public facilities and parks, ensuring that all physical assets meet safety and regulatory standards. By supervising the technical teams responsible for infrastructure development, the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive supports the expansion of community services and the improvement of regional connectivity. This position requires close coordination with planning departments to align physical growth with long-term sustainability goals. Through the rigorous management of operational budgets and project timelines, the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive ensures that the county maintains a robust foundation for economic development and public utility.
    Scott Nicholson

    Bryce Nelson - President

    Bryce Nelson, the President at Pierce County, Washington, provides high-level guidance on policy development and community engagement strategies. This leadership role involves representing the organization in regional forums, advocating for legislative priorities, and ensuring that the county remains focused on its core mission of public service. Bryce Nelson collaborates with other executive leaders to refine the strategic direction of the organization, particularly regarding the expansion of human services and the enhancement of civic programs. By analyzing demographic trends and community feedback, the President identifies opportunities for improving the quality of life for residents. This position requires a deep understanding of the regulatory environment and the ability to navigate complex inter-governmental relationships. Through the promotion of transparent governance and the pursuit of innovative service models, the President drives the organization toward achieving its long-term objectives, ensuring that the county remains a responsive and effective provider of essential public functions.

    Lana Weinmann - Chief of Staff

    Lana Weinmann, the Chief of Staff at Pierce County, Washington, manages the daily administrative operations and internal communications for the executive office. This role involves streamlining workflows between departments, facilitating high-level decision-making processes, and ensuring that the strategic priorities of the county leadership receive proper execution. Lana Weinmann coordinates complex projects involving public administration, elections, and human services, acting as a central point of contact for inter-departmental initiatives. By optimizing internal processes, the Chief of Staff improves the efficiency of government functions and supports the broader organizational goals. This position requires balancing competing demands from various civic programs while maintaining clear communication channels across the entire county structure. Through the management of administrative resources and the facilitation of executive meetings, the Chief of Staff ensures that the organization operates with precision, ultimately supporting the delivery of high-quality services to the residents and businesses within the jurisdiction.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pierce County, Washington Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pierce County, Washington?
    Pierce County, Washington is led by Thomas Pierson (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Scott Nicholson (Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive) and Bryce Nelson (President).
    Who is part of Pierce County, Washington’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pierce County, Washington includes leaders such as Thomas Pierson (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer), Scott Nicholson (Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive), Bryce Nelson (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pierce County, Washington have?
    Pierce County, Washington has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pierce County, Washington’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pierce County, Washington includes roles such as Interim President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive, President, Chief of Staff.