The North Carolina State Board of Elections is reshaping its leadership team with a fresh set of appointments and promotions that usher in a new era for the organization, as executive director Sam Hayes has put forward the names of five individuals – three for new roles and two for elevated positions – within the SBOE effective Nov. 1, according to an official press release by the board.
Tim Hoegemeyer steps into the role of the board’s general counsel, with a background as deputy general counsel for the N.C. Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education. His tenure in legal service is extensive, spanning over a decade as general counsel in the Office of the State Auditor. Educated at Campbell University, N.C. State University, and Northwestern University – Hoegemeyer also boasts a military history as a former artillery officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, the NCSBE announced.
With a new director of external affairs, Jason Tyson is tasked with overseeing the board’s communication channels, a role quite similar to his previous position as director of communications in the N.C. Department of Insurance. His career in communication spans various governmental roles, including the UNC System office, the N.C. Department of Labor, and the Governor’s Office under former Gov. Pat McCrory. Tyson's academic credentials include a degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a master's from Wake Forest University.
Leah Byers has been appointed the legislative liaison for the SBOE, and will represent the board in government affairs. Her prior experience includes working within the office of Senator Ralph Hise and engaging in public policy at the John Locke Foundation. A Rutherford County native, Byers earned her bachelor's from N.C. State University, and her master’s in public administration from the University of Kentucky. "Each of these new appointments have demonstrated a strong record of devoted service to the state and will bring a high level of knowledge in their respective areas," Director Hayes was quoted in the NCSBE announcement.
Complimenting the new blood are the internal promotions of Lindsey Wakely and Parker Holland at SBOE. Wakely, formerly the deputy general counsel, as been named director of campaign finance and will also serve as the campaign finance attorney. Having contributed over seven years at the SBOE. Holland, formerly the election administration manager, was promoted to deputy director of election administration, bringing with him experience from his start in county election administration in 2014 and his subsequent transition to the state board in 2020.
