Title
Human Resources Department recommending the Board:
1) Appoint Sue Phillips to the position of Chief Administrative Officer, effective March 21, 2026, at Step 2 of the salary range (approximate annual salary of $276,265.60); and
2) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign the Memorandum of Agreement between the County of El Dorado and Sue Phillips with the effective date of March 21, 2026.
FUNDING: General Fund.
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The Human Resources Department is recommending the appointment of Sue Phillips to the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Ms. Phillips is currently serving as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer. Approval of this item will remove interim status and transition Ms. Phillips into the permanent role of Chief Administrative Officer.
Compensation is recommended at Step 2 of the CAO salary range. In addition, consistent with County compensation provisions outlined in the Salary and Benefits Resolution for Unrepresented Employees, Ms. Phillips is eligible and will continue to receive 13% longevity pay in the CAO position. Except as otherwise provided in the Memorandum of Agreement, benefits and other compensation will be administered pursuant to the Salary and Benefits Resolution for Unrepresented Employees and other applicable County policies for appointed department heads.
A copy of the unexecuted Employment Agreement is attached to this item and will be fully executed upon approval by the Board of Supervisors.
ALTERNATIVES
If not approved, the Board will be required to consider other eligible candidates and/or provide direction regarding an alternative recruitment or appointment approach for the Chief Administrative Officer position.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
07/22/2025 Legistar file 25-1311 - Closed Session - Acting/Interim Chief Administrative Officer
07/22/2025 Legistar file 25-1312 - Closed Session - Public Employment. Title: Chief Administrative Officer
07/29/2025 Legistar file 25-1346 - Acting/Interim Chief Administrative Officer appointment
01/06/2026 Legistar file 26-0013 - Closed Session - Public Employment. Title: Chief Administrative Officer
01/27/2026 Legistar file 26-0143 - Closed Session - Public Employment. Title: Chief Administrative Officer
02/10/2026 Legistar file 26-0270 - Closed Session - Public Employment, Chief Administrative Officer
03/03/2026 Legistar file 26-0354 - Closed Session - Public Employment, Chief Administrative Officer
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel review of the Memorandum of Agreement
CAO RECOMMENDATION
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The cost of the position is included in the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
Obtain the Chair’s signature on the Memorandum of Agreement and ensure the fully executed agreement is distributed to Human Resources for administration.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Workforce Excellence
Priority: Enhance Employee Retention
Action Item: Attract and retain the best employees by providing competitive compensation, training, and advancement opportunities, and creating a positive and thriving culture
CONTACT
Joseph Carruesco, Director of Human Resources