PHX Reporter

Maricopa County, one of the state's largest employers, is adding dynamic leadership to its executive team.

Blanca Caballero has been promoted from Director of the Environmental Services Department to Assistant County Manager overseeing Administrative and Community Services. Caballero began her career with Environmental Services in 2008 where she served until 2013. After a stint with the Arizona Department of Health Services, she returned to Maricopa County in 2018 and held various public-facing roles including Ombudsman and Public Health Liaison during the COVID-19 pandemic. In her new role, Caballero will oversee six county departments.

Meanwhile, Zach Schira has been promoted from Executive Director to Assistant County Manager overseeing Elections and External Affairs. Schira joined the executive team in the summer of 2023 and has since taken on more responsibility with the establishment of a new Information Governance Department and the addition of a citizens’ Public Funding Safety committee. Schira is the former chief of staff to District 3 Supervisor Bill Gates and was recently named one of the region’s most impressive young leaders as part of Phoenix Business Journal’s “40 under 40.”

“Maricopa County is a place where you can grow your career,” said County Manager Jen Pokorski. “Blanca and Zach are two great examples of that. They both started in entry-level positions, Blanca in food safety and Zach answering constituent calls in Supervisor Gates’ office. I’m fortunate to be able to promote and collaborate with these two thoughtful, energetic, and community-focused leaders.”

Caballero and Schira join Darcy Kober and Marcy Flanagan as assistant county managers. Longtime public servant and current Deputy County Manager Valerie Beckett is retiring on July 1 after 30 years of dedicated service.