Caroline Smith

Caroline Smith serves as the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer for the County of San Diego. 

Caroline brings a passion for policy and public service combined with broad experience supporting a variety of public programs and services in nearly two decades with the County of San Diego.

She plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the County and its 20,000 employees who provide hundreds of programs and services to people in the region. She also helped shape the County’s vision, mission and values, prioritizing community engagement at the heart of everything the organization does.

Caroline is well-versed in the operations of the County, serving in many roles over almost 20 years. She began her current position as the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer in 2024, supporting the evolution of the organization with the Chief Administrative Officer aligned with the vision of a just, sustainable and resilient future for all.

She previously served as the County Health and Human Services Agency’s interim Deputy Chief Administrative Officer. The agency provides a broad range of health and social services to make people’s lives healthier, safer and self-sufficient, including public health, behavioral health, and child and family well-being.

Caroline is also the former Director of the Office of Economic Development and Government Affairs, working with all County departments and diverse, regional stakeholders to maintain the Board of Supervisors’ Legislative Program, create a vibrant economic development strategy, expand the County’s role in arts and culture, and track and identify grant funding opportunities for County departments. Previously, she worked as the Assistant Director of Aging & Independence Services and held roles in the Office Strategy and Intergovernmental Affairs and in a County Supervisor’s office.

Caroline is a graduate of the University of San Diego, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Go Toreros!

Caroline is a native of San Diego County, growing up in Ramona. She now lives with her family in Solana Beach and enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband Scott, 9-year-old son Cole and two energetic rescue labrador retrievers.