Michael Powers became the County Executive Officer for Ventura County in April of 2011. In this role he oversees a budget of $1.7 billion, and over 8,000 employees in 27 agencies and departments. He is responsible for overseeing and supporting all major county functions and services including budget, finance, legislation, human resources, labor relations, economic development and information technology. As CEO Mike's focus is on quality public service, fiscal discipline and investing in both our community and County workforce.
Prior to his appointment, Mike was the Director of the Health Care Agency (HCA) where he oversaw the operation and management of the County's health departments. These included the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC), Santa Paula Hospital, the Ambulatory Care Department, which provides a network of 30 community-based outpatient and speciality clinics, the Public Health Department, the Behavioral Health Department, the Medical Examiner's Office and the county-run health insurance plan. The Agency's budget totals over $500 million, with only a six percent County contribution, includes a workforce in excess of 2,300, over 300 contracted physicians, public-private partnerships, as well as the VCMC Family Medicine Residency, affiliated with UCLA. In 2010, the Agency provided over 1.7 million patient and client contacts at 63 locations throughout the county.
At HCA, Mike also served as Hospital Administrator, Physician Services Director, Compliance Officer and Deputy Director. He began his career with the County in 1992 as an Assistant County Counsel. Prior to joining the County, he worked in private legal practice with Nordman, Cormany, Hair & Compton. With a degree in Economics and Business from UCLA, he received his Law Degree from Loyola Law School.
Mike also serves or has served on a number of community boards, including Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation; United Way of Ventura County, and American Red Cross, Ventura County Chapter.
Mike feels it is a privilege to work alongside the talented, passionate and high caliber people who form the County Family. He was born and raised in Ventura, where he resides with his wife Erin, and two sons Charlie and Zackary.
The County Executive Office is responsible to the Board of Supervisors for the general administration and coordination of all County operations and programs. The CEO has direct responsibility for the administration of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors as well as preparation of the annual County budget, labor relations, recommendations on state and federal legislation, development and coordination of County administrative operating procedures, identification and assistance to departments in the pursuit of state and federal grant opportunities, and conducting analyses of program operations as requested by the Board of Supervisors.
Our Mission
To provide leadership and management systems that enhance decision-making for the Board of Supervisors and enable departments/agencies to serve the public in an efficient, effective, and ethical manner.
Our Vision
The County Executive Office will be recognized as exemplifying a government that models a passion for public service, fiscal integrity, innovation, and the promotion of critical thinking.
Our Values
We value and honor the public trust through:
Integrity, Ethics, Honesty
Leadership & Teamwork
Competency, Judgment, Accountability
Professionalism
Mutual respect
Recognizing employees as our greatest asset
Transparency through open communication with the Board of Supervisors, employees, and the public
