Wake County Executive and Leadership Team

Heidi Baird, the Chief Executive Officer at Wake County, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the county government. This leadership role involves guiding all departments to ensure the effective delivery of public services, including tax collection, library services, and local parks administration. Baird collaborates with the Board of Commissioners to set policy and allocate resources, driving initiatives that enhance citizen engagement and operational efficiency across North Carolina. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the county's mission to provide essential services and foster community development. Heidi Baird's strategic direction underpins the county's commitment to public welfare and administrative excellence.

W. Flanary, the Chief Financial Officer at Wake County, manages all fiscal operations and financial planning. This critical role involves overseeing budgeting, revenue collection, and expenditure management for all county services, including health and human services and law enforcement. Flanary ensures financial stability and compliance with regulatory requirements, driving fiscal responsibility across the organization. The Chief Financial Officer develops financial strategies to support the county's growth and service delivery objectives, working closely with department heads to optimize resource allocation. W. Flanary's expertise is vital for maintaining the financial health of Wake County and supporting its public service mandate.

Donald Garner, the Chief Operating Officer at Wake County, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of county services. This position involves managing the efficiency and effectiveness of departments responsible for planning, permitting, and local parks administration. Garner ensures that operational processes align with the county's strategic goals and service delivery standards. The Chief Operating Officer drives improvements in service delivery, focusing on optimizing resource utilization and enhancing public access to county functions. Donald Garner's leadership ensures the seamless operation of essential government functions, contributing directly to the county's ability to serve its residents effectively.

Johnathan Feldman, the Chief Information Officer at Wake County, directs the county's technology strategy and infrastructure. This role encompasses overseeing the implementation and management of IT systems that support all government services, from tax collection to health and human services. Feldman ensures the security, reliability, and scalability of the county's digital assets, driving innovation in technology adoption. The Chief Information Officer champions digital transformation initiatives, enhancing citizen access to information and services through robust technological solutions. Johnathan Feldman's guidance is essential for modernizing county operations and ensuring data integrity across all departments.

Ben Canada, the Chief of Staff at Wake County, provides strategic support and manages key initiatives for the executive leadership. This role involves coordinating efforts across various departments, facilitating communication between the Board of Commissioners and operational teams, and ensuring the smooth execution of administrative priorities. Canada oversees special projects and policy implementation, working to enhance the overall effectiveness of county governance. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, streamlining operations and ensuring alignment with the county's mission. Ben Canada's contributions are integral to the efficient functioning of Wake County's leadership structure.

Michael Bass, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Wake County, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing the county's technology infrastructure and digital services. This position focuses on the operational aspects of IT, including system maintenance, network management, and technical support for county employees. Bass ensures the reliability and security of IT systems that underpin essential services like planning and permitting. The Deputy Chief Information Officer plays a key part in implementing technology solutions that improve service delivery and enhance data management. Michael Bass's work directly supports the county's digital transformation efforts and operational continuity.

Sandra Oliver, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Wake County, assists in the strategic direction and implementation of information technology initiatives. This role emphasizes the development and deployment of new technologies that enhance public services, such as library services and health and human services. Oliver focuses on ensuring that technology solutions are user-friendly and accessible to all residents. The Deputy Chief Information Officer collaborates with department heads to identify technological needs and opportunities for improvement. Sandra Oliver's efforts contribute to modernizing Wake County's technological capabilities and expanding digital access for the community.

Alan Bumgardner, the Chief of Staff & Sheriff at Wake County, leads both the law enforcement division and provides high-level administrative support. This dual role involves overseeing the Sheriff's Office operations, ensuring public safety, and managing correctional facilities. Bumgardner also contributes to the strategic coordination of county initiatives, working closely with the executive leadership and Board of Commissioners. The Chief of Staff & Sheriff ensures that law enforcement functions are integrated with broader county objectives. Alan Bumgardner's leadership is critical for maintaining security and supporting the overall governance of Wake County.

Dara Demi, the Chief Communications Officer at Wake County, directs all public relations and internal communications strategies. This role involves managing the county's message across various media channels, ensuring transparency and effective engagement with residents and stakeholders. Demi oversees the dissemination of information regarding county services, policies, and initiatives, including tax collection and health services. The Chief Communications Officer develops communication plans to support county objectives and crisis management efforts. Dara Demi's expertise is essential for building public trust and fostering strong community relationships for Wake County.