Denise Christmas has been named Interim Deputy County Administrator. Her appointment is effective immediately.

“I am honored to accept the position of Interim Deputy County Administrator,” said Ms. Christmas. “I am committed to serving the citizens and working alongside our talented team. Together, we will strive for excellence and make positive changes and impacts.”

Denise Christmas has over 23 years’ experience working in county governments including Beaufort, Calhoun, and Orangeburg Counties. She has managed numerous county departments and served in many roles, among them: Chief Financial Officer, Deputy County Administrator, and Acting County Administrator. Denise is a skilled leader with years of experience in budgeting, policy development, internal controls, project management, community engagement, and economic development. She believes in the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and integrity. She has been a member of the South Carolina Government Finance Officers Association for over 20 years and earned her designation as Certified Government Finance Officer in 2009.

Denise holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Limestone University, a Local Governments Leadership Institute Certificate, a National Association of Counties High Performance Leadership Certificate, and is a recent graduate of the South Carolina Association of Counties Institute of Governments - Level 2 program. Prior to working for county governments, Denise worked for the U.S. Department of Justice and as a paralegal for 5 years.

Interim County Administrator John Robinson said, "Denise brings a wealth of experience and excellent leadership skills which will complement our team. I have full confidence in her ability to serve as our Interim Deputy County Administrator (DCA)."