Merced County Board of Supervisors Appoints Mark J. Hendrickson as County Executive Officer

During its meeting on Tuesday, July 8, the Merced County Board of Supervisors unanimously appointed Mark J. Hendrickson as County Executive Officer (CEO), officially removing the "interim" title he held since May 19, 2025.

Following a thorough recruitment process and interviews with a number of highly qualified candidates, the Board selected Hendrickson as the most qualified individual to lead the County into the future.

"Mark brings a unique combination of experience, leadership, and institutional knowledge that makes him exceptionally well-suited for this role," said Board of Supervisors Chairman Josh Pedrozo. "His deep understanding of Merced County's operations, challenges, and opportunities-paired with his longstanding commitment to public service-made him the clear choice."

Hendrickson's public service career spans 33 years, including nearly 19 years in leadership roles with Merced County. Most recently, he served as the County's Assistant County Executive Officer, where he provided executive oversight of several departments and ensured that County operations aligned with the strategic goals set by the Board of Supervisors. His previous County roles include Director of Governmental Affairs and Director of Community and Economic Development, where he played a central role in policy development, economic planning, and intergovernmental coordination for nearly 15 years.

A decorated veteran of the United States Air Force, Hendrickson holds a degree from California State University, Stanislaus and is certified in the Strategic Management of Public Organizations by the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. He is also a California County Credentialed Senior Executive.

"I am deeply honored to serve our community and am humbled by the Board's trust placed in me," Hendrickson said. "I look forward to working closely with the Board, our dedicated employees, and our community partners to move this County forward in a thoughtful, strategic, and impactful way."

Mr. Hendrickson assumes the permanent CEO position effective immediately.