Hot off the press, as they say, from Todd Spitzer’s office:
Frank Kim Selected as Incoming OC County Executive Officer Effective May 12; Mike Giancola Honored for His Leadership and Service
(Santa Ana, CA) — The Orange County Board of Supervisors today announced that Chief Financial Officer Frank Kim will assume the duties of County Executive Officer, effective May 12, following the Board’s ratification of Mr. Kim’s contract. Kim was named the County’s top financial officer in May 2013, and previously served as County Budget Director for more than five years.
The Board today also announced that, on May 12, the Board will consider releasing current County Executive Officer Michael Giancola from his employment agreement. If approved by the Board, this action will permit Giancola to retire after more than 30 years as a County employee, including two years as CEO after rising through the ranks to become Director of OC Waste & Recycling.
“Mike Giancola is a true example of what it means to rise through the ranks, having started his career over 30 years ago as a front line employee. Working his way through the establishment, Mike offered an understanding of our history and dynamics that proved valuable in shaping Orange County into what it is today. His leadership will be missed,” said Board Chairman and Third District Supervisor Todd Spitzer.
Giancola, who assumed the top job in May 2013, restructured County departments and the executive office, including creating a new chief real estate officer. He set a more business-focused vision for agencies and departments, including standardizing County practices, and enhanced formal training for County workers. He began his County career as a park attendant in 1976, leaving only for a five-year stint in the U.S. Navy.
During 27 years with OC Waste & Recycling, he served in a number of management positions, including as the first manager of the County’s recycling program and as a deputy director.
The unanimous decision by the Board to appoint Kim follows the announcement last month that the CEO intended to retire earlier than planned due to health reasons. Chairman Spitzer said Tuesday that the Board didn’t need to look far to find an outstanding replacement, which is a testament to the County’s commitment to developing more robust succession planning and creating opportunities for internal advancement.
Since joining the County in 1995, Kim has served in a number of capacities with agencies including the County Executive Office, Auditor-Controller Department, OC Waste & Recycling and the Probation Department. Before starting his career with the County, Kim worked as an internal auditor for American Restaurant Group and as a tax accountant for Arthur Anderson & Co.
“At a time where Orange County is emerging from bankruptcy, it is important to have a County Executive Officer who is fiscally sound and strategically minded when it comes to the budget and finances of Orange County. Frank Kim will bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of Orange County’s fiscal structure and potential,” Supervisor Todd Spitzer said.
Kim’s annual salary will be included in the contract that will be ratified by the Board of Supervisors at the public meeting on May 12. He currently earns $192,379.20 a year. In the event the Board on May 12 approves the action to terminate Giancola’s contract, Giancola will receive a severance payment from the County equal to 90 days’ salary. His salary is $248,060.80 annually.