Shaker Heights has officially appointed Matthew P. Carroll as its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and Clerk of Council, following a special meeting of the city council on August 11. According to a city announcement, Carroll will step into the role previously held by Jeri Chaikin, who's set to retire after 24 years of tenure at the end of September. Carroll, a seasoned pro in city and county government operations, arrives with a robust portfolio, including his most recent stint as senior advisor for strategic initiatives at Cuyahoga County's Department of Health and Human Services.
Mayor David E. Weiss expressed his confidence in Carroll's ability to lead, highlighted by the latter's extensive public service background and intimate knowledge of the Shaker community. "Matt possesses the executive and administrative training, experience, and judgement needed to oversee the day-to-day operations of Shaker Heights city government," Mayor Weiss stated, as reported by the City of Shaker Heights's news release. Taking the reins on September 3, Carroll will have leadership over a multifaceted team, managing sectors that range from finance to economic development, and will play a pivotal role in shaping the city's significant $64 million annual budget.
In response to his appointment, Carroll acknowledged the high standards of his predecessor and expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the community where he, together with his wife Laura Kleinman, has raised their children. "I see all that Shaker has to offer as a community and I hope to add value wherever I can. I am truly honored to serve in this position," Carroll said in the City of Shaker Heights's official statement. His attachment to the area is personal as well, with two sons who are recent graduates from Shaker Heights High School.
Carroll's professional trajectory in public sector management includes roles such as the chief of staff to a previous county executive and chief economic growth and opportunity officer, where managing departments across economic sectors was of paramount focus. He also dedicated nine years as the director of the City of Cleveland's Department of Public Health. Carroll brings an academic perspective as well, courtesy of his course on poverty at Cleveland State University's Levin College of Urban Affairs and Education. Holding degrees from both Brown University and Georgetown University Law Center, Carroll's expertise is further evidenced by his board involvements with Say Yes to Education and Global Cleveland, as a testament to his commitment to the development of the region.
