On Monday, Kaohly Her, the newly elected mayor of Saint Paul, disclosed her senior leadership team, a group arrayed to steer the city and manage various functions and departments. The formation includes four assistant mayors to oversee key sectors, while another will handle the daily operations within the mayor's office itself.
Among the appointments, noted by the City of Saint Paul's news release, is Cedrick Baker, tasked as the Director of the Office of Neighborhood Safety. Baker, who's educational pursuit currently includes a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, has a rich history in public service, including vital roles at Saint Paul Public Schools and the McKnight Foundation.
Irene Kao steps into the role of City Attorney, bringing with her a legal acumen sharpened by years as General Counsel at the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and ample municipal experience. Marcus Owens, as Director of the Office of Financial Empowerment, carries over two decades of expertise at the crossroads of community development, finance, and public systems into his new role.
Jodi Pfarr will serve as the Assistant Mayor of People & Neighborhood Vitality, overseeing a range of departments from Parks & Recreation to Human Rights. Pfarr is lauded for her work in communal advocacy, with significant strategic planning and implementation experience garnered from various local organizations. Meanwhile, Erica Schumacher has been named Senior Assistant Mayor of Safety & Justice, overseeing critical departments like Police, Fire, and the City Attorney's office, bringing her extensive experience in local government and justice system transformation.
Nick Stumo-Langer takes on the role of Assistant Mayor of Housing, Economic Vibrancy, & Infrastructure. Known for his consensual approach and proven legislative achievements, Stumo-Langer's duties will encompass Planning & Economic Development, among other departments. Hnu Vang, a leader with a track record of grassroots mobilization, will direct operations within the mayor's office as the Assistant Mayor of Staff & Strategic Partnerships.
Completing Mayor Her’s core team is Matt Wagenius, appointed as the Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications. Wagenius, with a background covering political communication strategies from local to national levels, is set to improve the communication channels between the city's administration and its residents.
