Health & human services

Secretary, Health & Human Services

Medi-Cal, public health and social services. The Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency serves in a cabinet-level capacity with oversight responsibilities connected to the California Child Care Resource and Referral Network, which supports families in accessing quality child care throughout the state. This role provides strategic direction for health, human services, and early childhood programs across a large portfolio of state departments and offices. The Secretary advises the Governor on policy matters affecting vulnerable populations, including children, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Candidates typically bring executive leadership experience in health, human services, or related public sector fields.

I'm interested in this role Nominate someone

“I'm interested” takes you to a short sign-up with this role already selected. “Nominate someone” puts another person forward.

← All 22 priority roles

The appointment

Appointed by: The Governor
Confirmation: Senate, by majority vote
Term: At the Governor's pleasure
Compensation: $247,000/yr
Availability: At-pleasure: available to the next Governor on day one; Senate confirmation of the replacement within one year where required.
Statutory requirements: None in statute. Gov. Code 12801: the Governor appoints each agency secretary listed in Gov. Code 12800, subject to confirmation by the Senate; the secretary holds office at the pleasure of the Governor. Salary tier Gov. Code 11550, adjusted by CalHR under 19825.5.

Statute-verified

Sources

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/06/calhhs-secretary-dr-ghaly-to-depart-cdss-director-johnson-appointed-new-secretary/; Statute research 2026-10-20: Gov. Code secs. 12800, 12801, 11550, 19825.5 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/government-code/gov-sect-12801/; https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/government-code/gov-sect-11550/

In the catalog

The catalog entry behind this profile. The role explorer lists every California Health and Human Services Agency role, including deputies and other seats.

Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency

California Health and Human Services Agency

Health & Human ServicesCabinet / C-Suite$247,000/yrSenate confirmation required

Health and Human ServicesPolicy and Analysis

The Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency serves in a cabinet-level capacity with oversight responsibilities connected to the California Child Care Resource and Referral Network, which supports families in accessing quality child care throughout the state. This role provides strategic direction for health, human services, and early childhood programs across a large portfolio of state departments and offices. The Secretary advises the Governor on policy matters affecting vulnerable populations, including children, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Candidates typically bring executive leadership experience in health, human services, or related public sector fields.

Interested?

Flag the role for yourself and tell us who you are, or send us the name of someone who should be considered.

I'm interested in this role Nominate someone

“I'm interested” takes you to a short sign-up with this role already selected. “Nominate someone” puts another person forward.

The CalCEO Council is part of the California Foundation for Commerce and Education (CFCE). The California Plum Book is built and operated by the Leadership Now Project.