The Coconino County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on March 2 to appoint Steve Peru as its next County Manager, with his service to begin on April 5.
The Board interviewed Peru on March 2 for the role. Peru also interviewed with the County Elected Officials and Department heads. In making the appointment, Supervisors cited Peru’s experience at the County and in the private sector and other community agencies. This experience is part of “an alignment of opportunity” for the County to fill its need for consistent and capable leadership in the coming months as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and for the financial challenges the County faces due to the pandemic. Additionally, Peru knows the County well as a former County Manager with an eye toward the culture of the organization.
“We know that consistent leadership from someone who understands our unique community is absolutely essential as we continue to face the crisis at-hand. These are extraordinary times in our world and economy and we are excited to have Steve’s leadership and knowledge back with us at the County,” said Chairman Matt Ryan, on behalf of the Board of Supervisors.
“It’s an honor to be named County Manager. The years I spent as County Manager at Coconino County previously were some of the best of my professional career and it feels like I am coming home. I know we face immense challenges, but I am energized and ready to work with the Board and staff to meet these head-on,” said Steve Peru.
Current County Manager James Jayne, who announced his retirement last December, will serve as a Senior Advisor to Peru to aid in the leadership transition.
The Board also cancelled the contract with Strategic Government Resources to conduct the County Manager Recruitment as today’s appointment finalized that process.
