Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has officially named Chris Warner as her Chief of Staff, along with unveiling new appointments to her executive leadership team. Warner, with a background of over three decades in public policy and a stint as head of the Portland Bureau of Transportation, brings considerable government experience to the Governor's office. Kotek affirmed Warner's capabilities: "Chris Warner brings years of experience leading teams to implement large-scale initiatives, navigating complex budget cycles for both local and state government, and contributing executive-level management skills to challenges large and small," the governor said, as detailed on state government's official news announcement.
In a strategic move to fully optimize her administration's efficiency, further changes were also announced. Taylor Smiley Wolfe transitions from Director of the Governor's Housing and Homelessness Initiative to Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor's Initiatives. Vince Porter, previously serving as the Governor's Economic Development and Workforce Advisor, is set to take over Warner's previous role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Administration. Complementing the team, Kate Nass continues as Chief Financial Officer and Matthew Tschabold steps up as the new Director for the Housing and Homelessness Initiative.
Kotek's leadership shake-up extends to several other key roles. Andre Bealer joins as Equity and Racial Justice Director, An Do as Public Affairs and Communications Director, and Richard Lane as General Counsel. The office also includes Lindsey O’Brien, Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Engagement (currently on leave), Berri Leslie as State Chief Operating Officer and DAS Director, and Bob Livingston as Legislative Director.
"These individuals have each meaningfully contributed to the progress my administration has made for Oregonians thus far," Kotek emphasized, shouldering expectations high for her newly assembled leadership. "The breadth and depth of experience on this team will deliver results for Oregonians in every part of the state," she added, as noted in the official announcement. This overhaul of Kotek's executive team reflects her commitment to addressing state challenges through a diversified and experienced team.
