Gov. Rhoden Announces Steven Kohler as Interim BHRA Commissioner

Article Body

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 5, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Announces Steven Kohler as Interim BHRA Commissioner

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced that Steven Kohler will serve as the Interim Commissioner of the South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration (BHRA), effective November 9.

"Steven is a true public servant and has a history of strong leadership. He's been a key contributor to our financial systems upgrade, including Project BISON, and I have full confidence in his ability to lead BHRA," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "I appreciate Darin Seeley's service to South Dakota and the many improvements he made while serving in the Cabinet. I know he will make a positive impact in his new role."

Kohler will follow Commissioner Darin Seeley, who has led the agency since 2019 when he was appointed by former Governor Kristi Noem. Seeley will complete his service as Commissioner on Friday, November 6, and has accepted a position in the private sector.

"It's been an honor to be a part of the administration these past seven years. I am very proud of the work the team has done for our state and the people who serve it," said Darin Seeley.

Kohler currently serves as the Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau of Finance and Management (BFM) and has held several key leadership roles within BFM, the Department of Human Services, and BHRA during his 14 years in state government. Throughout his tenure, he has worked diligently to help maintain South Dakota's strong financial position through responsible budgeting and long-term financial planning. One of his most noteworthy accomplishments has been leading Project BISON, South Dakota's enterprise resource planning modernization initiative, which is transforming how the state manages its financial platforms.

"I am grateful to Governor Rhoden for the confidence he has placed in me and for the opportunity to serve the people of South Dakota in this role," said Steven Kohler. "I believe that effective government starts with dedicated individuals, strong leadership, and the systems in place to support them. I look forward to working with the Bureau's team, building on the work already being done, and finding opportunities to improve how we serve state employees and the people of South Dakota."

Steven Kohler earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Economics from South Dakota State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of South Dakota. He lives in Pierre with his wife, DeLacie, and their three children, Austin, Logan, and Brooklyn. Outside of work, Steven enjoys serving in his church and spending time in South Dakota's great outdoors. You can find a picture of Steven Kohler here.

###