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Oakland County Executive Announces Key Leadership Appointments: Walt Herzig to Serve as Chief Deputy, Megan C. Sellers Makes History as Deputy County Executive

Post Date:08/01/2024 12:39 PM
  • Walt Herzig will assume duties as chief deputy county executive on Aug. 30.
  • Megan C. Sellers’ responsibilities will include overseeing the Department of Public Communications and serving as the county executive’s liaison to the Board of Commissioners.
  • Sellers is the first Black woman to become deputy county executive in Oakland County.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter is making two key appointments to his administration. Effective Aug. 30, Walt Herzig will be promoted from deputy county executive to chief deputy county executive, and Megan C. Sellers will assume Herzig’s former responsibilities, becoming the first Black woman to serve as deputy county executive.

Herzig joined Coulter’s administration in October 2022 as deputy county executive, serving as the liaison to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, the Michigan Legislature, and U.S. Congress, as well as overseeing the Department of Public Communications.

His extensive public service record includes roles as chief of staff for former Lt. Gov. John Cherry, and district director for former U.S. Reps. Andy Levin and Sander Levin and as a special assistant to the late U.S. Sen. Carl Levin. In 2010, Herzig, as a state employee, successfully led Michigan's efforts to achieve the fifth-highest mail response rate in the nation for the U.S. Census. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and resides in Ferndale with his wife and two children.

“Walt’s extensive experience and proven leadership make him the ideal choice for chief deputy county executive,” Coulter said. “His dedication and strategic vision have been instrumental in our successes, and I am confident he will continue to drive Oakland County forward with integrity and innovation.”

Sellers has been with Oakland County for more than nine years in the Water Resources Commissioner’s Office and the Board of Commissioners where she rose to operations supervisor and was interim chief of staff. Since March of 2024, she has served as special projects manager in Coulter's administration, helping with the county’s relocation of its administration and employees to Downtown Pontiac. 

Prior to her tenure with the county, Sellers held managerial and supervisory positions with hotel chains from 2010 to 2015. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications, organizational communication and public relations from Michigan State University and her certified public manager - a leadership program for individuals in public service - from Saginaw Valley State University.

Sellers lives in Oxford with her three children.

“Megan is well respected among our county peers and brings a wealth of skills and a fresh perspective to the role of deputy county executive,” Coulter said. “Her track record of effective management and her commitment to our community will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and improve county operations.”

Herzig will succeed Hilarie Chambers, who is retiring as chief deputy county executive on Aug. 29 after five years of exemplary service. During her tenure, Chambers facilitated the development of the Coulter administration’s first strategic plan and performance management system. She also established the Department of Public Communications and the Transit Division following the approval of the countywide transit millage. Additionally, she spearheaded the Oakland80 initiative, aiming to ensure that 80% of county residents attain a post-secondary degree or industry-recognized credential. Internally, Chambers launched the "Women4Women" group to support, recognize and expand leadership opportunities for women within the county.

Chambers, the first woman to hold the chief deputy position, has dedicated more than three decades to public service, including her tenure as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Sander Levin from 1996 to 2017.

“Hilarie has been a trailblazer and a trusted advisor in our administration and beyond,” Coulter said. “Her legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire us as we build on her remarkable achievements.”

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