Coulter names new chief deputy county executive

Oakland County Executive David Coulter announced the appointment of Hilarie Chambers as chief deputy county executive Tuesday. She will be the first woman to serve in that role for the county.

“Hilarie has the experience, relationships and skills to help continue the county’s momentum of strong management,” Coulter said. “She knows how to bring levels of government together to best serve residents. I have worked with her in multiple ways over the years and look forward to having her on our team as we chart a continued positive path for Oakland County.”

Chambers currently serves as chief of staff for Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Prior to assuming that role in January 2019, she worked for now-retired U.S. Rep. Sander Levin for more than 25 years, including office leadership responsibilities in Michigan and Washington, D.C.

For the secretary of state, she has served as the top appointed official for the $3 billion department. In Chambers’ most recent position for Rep. Levin, she worked as his chief of staff.

Her experience also includes time in the nonprofit sector as executive director of Detroit-based Reading Works.

“I deeply appreciate the opportunity provided by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to begin the work of implementing new voting rights and enhancing customer service at the secretary of state’s office,” Chambers said. “I look forward to working under the leadership of County Executive David Coulter and with the talented and professional team at Oakland County.”

Chambers resides in Pleasant Ridge. She will begin as chief deputy county executive on Thursday, Aug. 29.