Executive Bios

Mark Schwartz

Mark Schwartz became County Manager in January 2016 after serving six months as Acting County Manager. He is a former Deputy County Manager and Director of the Department of Management & Finance.

Michelle Cowan

Michelle Cowan has been working as a Deputy County Manager since July 1, 2015. Prior to this position, Michelle has served Arlington County as the Director of Management and Finance.

James Schwartz

James Schwartz was appointed Deputy County Manager in September 2015, overseeing public safety and technology. For 11 years, he served as Arlington Fire Chief.

Samia Byrd

Samia Byrd is a Deputy County Manager and serves as an advisor to the County Manager and a liaison to the County Board on planning and development related interests.

Shannon Flanagan-Watson was appointed as Deputy County Manager in May 2018, with oversight responsibility for Arlington Economic Development, Arlington Public Libraries, and a portion of the Department of Environmental Services, one of the County’s largest departments.