Santa Ana, Calif. (April 11, 2025) – Interim Orange County Executive Officer (CEO) Michelle Aguirre announced that Jamie Newton has been appointed as the County’s new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Ms. Newton assumed her role on Friday, March 28, 2025.
“I have had the opportunity to work with Jamie since she joined the County and most extensively throughout the last round of labor negotiations,” said Interim County CEO Michelle Aguirre. “Jamie is a true professional who consistently displays a can-do attitude and extensive experience in employee and labor relations, leave management, and equal employment opportunities (EEO). She has played a key role in supporting departments and driving HR initiatives.”
Ms. Newton has served the County since 2019, most recently as Director of Employee and Labor Relations. In this role, she led key labor negotiations and advanced workforce policies that support County departments and employees. Her expertise spans employee and labor relations, leave management, and equal employment opportunity (EEO).
Prior to joining the County, Ms. Newton held leadership positions at the Orange County Employees Association (OCEA), and in the private sector at Albertsons, LLC, where she oversaw human resources for 40 retail locations.
Ms. Newton earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University, and a Juris Doctor from Western State College of Law.
With more than 20 years of experience across public, private, and labor sectors, Ms. Newton is well positioned to lead Human Resource Services in supporting the County’s evolving needs and advancing innovative workforce strategies.
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