Merced County appoints interim CEO while searching for replacement

Mark Hendrickson Merced County’s assistant county executive officer has been appointed interim CEO as Raul Lomeli Mendez prepares to leave the position later this month.

A search is underway to find a permanent replacement for Mendez, who served as CEO since January 2022.

Hendrickson has worked for Merced County for nearly 19 years. He called the opportunity to step in as the interim CEO humbling. He said he will be working to ensure continuity of operations and to advance the objectives of the board of supervisors. He will begin in the role on May 19.

“We have a wonderful group of department heads and senior leaders within the organization for whom I have the privilege of working closely with,” he said. “My most significant goal is to continue to deliver optimal customer service to our residents.”

Hendrickson also has served as the county’s director of Government Affairs and director of Community and Economic Development.

He is a graduate of California State University, Stanislaus, and holds a certificate from the Goldman School of Public Policy at University of California, Berkeley in Strategic Management of Public Organizations. He is recognized as a California County Credentialed Senior Executive and is a Veteran of the United States Air Force.

Merced County supervisors offered praised to Mendez during a recent meeting.

Board chairperson and District 2 Supervisor Josh Pedrozo said “your dedication and commitment to Merced County has been admirable. I respect you, I trust you, I trust your advice and appreciate your leadership.”

District 3 Supervisor Daron McDaniel added, “you stepped into this role in 2022 with a steady hand, a thoughtful approach and a genuine commitment to do the right by the people of Merced County.”