Pierce County, Washington Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pierce County, Washington has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and information technology.

Serving the Seattle metropolitan area, Pierce County, Washington is dedicated to providing essential public services and fostering community well-being through effective governance and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at Pierce County, Washington

  • Chief Executive Officer - Maureen Fife
  • Interim President & Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Pierson
  • Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive - Scott Nicholson
  • President - Bryce Nelson
  • Chief Information Officer - Terry Hale
  • Chief of Staff - Lana Weinmann
  • Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L4-11 - Paul Evans
  • Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L3-9 - Robert Copodonna
  • Maureen Fife - Chief Executive Officer

    Maureen Fife, the Chief Executive Officer at Pierce County, Washington, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the county government. Fife's leadership ensures alignment with the county's mission of serving its approximate 795,200 residents and supporting the Seattle metropolitan area's dynamic growth. This executive role involves coordinating departmental initiatives to enhance public services and drive efficiency across all county functions. Maureen Fife's strategic direction underpins the county's commitment to effective governance and community development, impacting the second-most populous county in Washington. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering intergovernmental relations and representing the county's interests at regional and state levels, ensuring robust public administration.
    Maureen Fife

    Thomas Pierson - Interim President & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Pierson, the Interim President & Chief Executive Officer at Pierce County, Washington, provides critical leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity in executive management and strategic execution. Pierson's focus remains on maintaining operational stability and advancing key county objectives within the Seattle metropolitan area. This role involves overseeing the implementation of policies and programs designed to serve the county's substantial population and support its economic vitality. Thomas Pierson's interim leadership ensures that the county government continues to deliver essential services effectively, upholding its commitment to the residents of Pierce County. The Interim President & Chief Executive Officer's mandate includes guiding the organization through change while upholding standards of public service and administrative integrity.

    Scott Nicholson - Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive

    Scott Nicholson, the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive at Pierce County, Washington, directs the day-to-day operational activities and oversees the delivery of essential public services to the county's extensive population. Nicholson's dual role ensures seamless integration between executive leadership directives and the practical implementation of county programs. This executive position involves managing departmental performance, optimizing resource allocation, and driving operational improvements to enhance service delivery across Pierce County. Scott Nicholson's leadership is fundamental to maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of county government operations within the Seattle metropolitan area. The Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive champions initiatives that promote fiscal responsibility and service excellence.
    Scott Nicholson

    Bryce Nelson - President

    Bryce Nelson, the President at Pierce County, Washington, provides leadership and strategic direction for key governmental functions, contributing to the overall administration of the county. Nelson's role involves overseeing specific operational areas and ensuring that county initiatives align with the needs of its residents and the broader goals of the Seattle metropolitan area. This executive position focuses on driving performance and fostering collaboration among various county departments. Bryce Nelson's leadership is instrumental in advancing the county's commitment to public service and operational excellence. The President's contributions are vital to the effective governance and continued development of Pierce County.

    Terry Hale - Chief Information Officer

    Terry Hale, the Chief Information Officer at Pierce County, Washington, architects and oversees the county's comprehensive technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hale's leadership ensures that robust, secure, and efficient information systems support the county's diverse operations and public-facing services for its nearly 800,000 residents. This executive position involves managing IT departments, driving innovation in digital service delivery, and safeguarding sensitive data across the organization. Terry Hale's strategic vision for technology empowers county employees and enhances the accessibility of government services for the citizens of Pierce County. The Chief Information Officer's role is pivotal in modernizing county operations and ensuring technological resilience within the Seattle metropolitan area.

    Lana Weinmann - Chief of Staff

    Lana Weinmann, the Chief of Staff at Pierce County, Washington, manages strategic initiatives and facilitates operational coordination across county departments. Weinmann's role is central to ensuring the effective execution of the executive leadership's agenda, supporting the county's mission to serve its large population. This position involves overseeing key projects, advising executive leadership, and streamlining communication channels to enhance organizational efficiency. Lana Weinmann's expertise in operational management and strategic planning is crucial for driving progress on critical county objectives. The Chief of Staff ensures that the county government operates cohesively and responsively to the needs of Pierce County residents and the broader Seattle metropolitan area.

    Paul Evans - Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L4-11

    Paul Evans, the Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L4-11 at Pierce County, Washington, leads critical human resources functions within the Sheriff's Department, focusing on personnel management and development. Evans's responsibilities encompass talent acquisition, employee relations, and fostering a supportive work environment for law enforcement personnel serving Pierce County. This specialized role ensures that the Sheriff's Department maintains a highly skilled and motivated workforce capable of addressing public safety needs. Paul Evans's strategic approach to people operations contributes directly to the effectiveness and integrity of law enforcement services. The Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L4-11 plays a vital part in upholding the department's commitment to its personnel and the community.

    Robert Copodonna - Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L3-9

    Robert Copodonna, the Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L3-9 at Pierce County, Washington, manages essential human capital strategies within the Sheriff's Department, focusing on employee support and organizational development. Copodonna's responsibilities include implementing HR policies and programs that enhance the well-being and professional growth of departmental staff. This role is crucial for maintaining a high-performing and dedicated team within the law enforcement community of Pierce County. Robert Copodonna's efforts in people management directly support the Sheriff's Department's mission to ensure public safety and community trust. The Deputy Sheriff Chief People Officer L3-9 contributes significantly to the department's operational readiness and employee retention.

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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 Maureen Fife (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Pierson (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer) and Scott Nicholson (Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive).
    Who is part of Pierce County, Washington’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pierce County, Washington includes leaders such as Maureen Fife (Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Pierson (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer), Scott Nicholson (Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pierce County, Washington have?
    Pierce County, Washington has 8 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 Chief Executive Officer, Interim President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Deputy County Executive, President, Chief Information Officer.