California Governor Gavin Newsom today announced three key appointments to state agencies, filling significant roles in housing, workers' compensation, and emergency services. The appointments include Cynthia Stein, Nicole Richardson, and Sherri Sarro, bringing extensive experience to their new positions.
Cynthia Stein, of Piedmont, has been named General Counsel at the California Housing and Homelessness Agency. Stein previously served as Senior Counselor for LA Recovery in the Governor's Office and as a Deputy Legal Affairs Secretary since 2022. Her background also includes work at the Oakland City Attorney’s Office and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP. This role, with a compensation of $228,984, does not require Senate confirmation.
Nicole Richardson, from San Ramon, will serve as Administrative Director of the Division of Workers Compensation at the Department of Industrial Relations. Richardson was Chief Counsel for the same division since 2026 and held various staff counsel positions prior. A Santa Clara University law graduate, her appointment requires Senate confirmation and comes with a compensation of $217,692.
Sherri Sarro, of Escondido, has been appointed Deputy Director of Response at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. Sarro has a long tenure with the California Office of Emergency Services, including roles as Assistant Director of Response, South, and Deputy Chief of Law Enforcement. She also served as Chief at San Diego County Sheriff. This position does not require Senate confirmation and offers $182,964.