Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus announced that Samantha Sweikata has been named the County’s acting Commissioner of General Services and Information Technology (IT).

Sweikata replaces Jim Burpoe who will begin serving as Putnam County’s Deputy County Executive in January.

“Samantha has been an integral part of the General Services/IT department for the last decade and has the experience, knowledge and work ethic to take on this important role,” Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said. “She is a consummate professional, and I know that she will do a great job delivering government services efficiently and effectively.

Neuhaus also thanks Burpoe for his service to Orange County and wishes him well in his new role.

“Jim’s diverse experience in both the public and private sector and knowledge of County government operations will make him an asset to County Executive Kevin Byrne’s team and the residents of Putnam County,” Neuhaus added.

Commissioner Sweikata will have responsibility for planning, supervising and directing the operations of the department. In addition, she is responsible for the functions and activities of the Divisions of Information Technology, Procurement and Government Operations and Contract Compliance and Policy.

Sweikata, a Greenville resident, began her career in Orange County Government in the Accounting Department at the Valley View Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in 2007. She transferred to General Services/IT four years later and most recently served as the department’s Deputy Commissioner of Procurement and Compliance. As Deputy Commissioner of Procurement and Compliance, Sweikata ensured that the procurement laws and policies were followed by County Departments and vendors. She also teaches a “How to Do Business with Orange County” class to support local businesses.

“I want to thank County Executive Neuhaus for entrusting me with this important position,” Sweikata said. “I look forward to working diligently on behalf of the County’s residents and will continue to focus on the County’s responsiveness and transparency, while protecting against privacy and security risks, and ensuring the delivery of services in a timely manner. I am excited to collaborate with County Executive Neuhaus, the Legislature, the County’s various departments and my talented team.”

The Commissioner of General Services/IT is subject to confirmation by the Orange County Legislature. County Executive Neuhaus will present Sweikata for confirmation in the coming weeks.