Governor Gavin Newsom today announced four key appointments to various state departments and boards, including new leadership roles in general services, food and agriculture, and positions on the State Board of Fire Services and the Native American Heritage Commission. These appointments reflect a mix of experienced public servants and community leaders.
Jaci Thomson, of Roseville, has been named Deputy Director of the Interagency Support Division at the California Department of General Services. Thomson brings extensive financial and administrative experience from her previous roles at the California Department of State Hospitals and the California Department of Finance. Her compensation for this role will be $195,492.
Devon Keeler, from Carmichael, will serve as Deputy Secretary for Communications and External Affairs at the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Keeler previously held positions at the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement and the California Department of Public Health, focusing on communications and partnerships. She will receive $161,100 annually.
Additionally, Darrell Roberts, a Chula Vista Battalion Chief and President of the California Professional Firefighters, has been appointed to the State Board of Fire Services. John Preckwinkle III, formerly a Tribal Council Member for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, joins the Native American Heritage Commission, a position requiring Senate confirmation. Neither Roberts nor Preckwinkle will receive compensation for their board service.