Gessler Names Suzanne Staiert Deputy Secretary of State

Cites local government and legal experience

Denver, February 29, 2012 - Today Secretary of State Scott Gessler appointed Suzanne Staiert to the Deputy Secretary of State position.

“I’m excited to bring Suzanne’s strong public sector legal experience to serve our customers and the people of Colorado,” Gessler said. “Suzanne shares my customer-focused agenda aimed at breaking down barriers for Coloradans to their government.”

Most recently, Staiert served as an associate municipal judge for the City of Centennial. Prior to her position there, she served as legal counsel to Arapahoe County and the cities of Littleton and Aurora.

“Suzanne is an energetic, level-headed professional who will be a great asset to the Colorado Secretary of State’s office. She is an exceptional elections attorney,” said Denver Clerk and Recorder Deb Johnson, who worked with Staiert while serving as the Aurora City Clerk. “She’s competent, she cuts to the chase and she gets it done. I’m looking forward to working with her.”

In addition to her local elections experience, Staiert also worked with constituents on licensing and zoning issues. In Littleton, Sterling Ranch CEO Harold Smethills called Staiert an “advocate” for business.

“Working with government agencies can be a challenge, but Suzanne is solutions-oriented and will be an advocate for the business community,” Smethills said. “The state is lucky to have her.”

Staiert replaces Deputy Secretary of State Bill Hobbs, who announced his retirement last year after 12 years in the office. Following his announcement, Gessler convened a search committee to identify a new deputy.

“The search committee worked well together to execute a fair process, while thoroughly considering some highly qualified and impressive candidates from across the country,” said search committee member and DHR International Executive Vice President Deb Young. “Suzanne’s background, demeanor and incredible talents make her a great fit for the office and the customers it serves.”

Joining Young on the search committee were U.S. Senator Hank Brown, former Secretary of State Gigi Dennis, attorney Jim Hackstaff and Hobbs. The committee reviewed nearly 70 applicants, eventually passing along the top five finalists to Gessler, who ultimately selected Staiert.

“With an upcoming presidential election and new initiatives scheduled for the Business and Licensing Division, it’s an exciting time to be a part of the Secretary of State’s office,” Staiert said. “I’m looking forward to continuing my public service and helping Secretary Gessler deliver a more efficient office to our customers and the people of Colorado.”