Kim Johnson was appointed Secretary of the California Health & Human Services Agency in September 2024 by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Prior to her appointment as Secretary, Ms. Johnson served as the Director of the California Department of Social Services, a position to which she was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom and held from July 2019 to August 2024. In this role, Ms. Johnson led a team of over 5,500 employees within the largest department of the California Health and Human Services Agency, serving over 7 million Californians.

Ms. Johnson’s career with the California Department of Social Services began in 2015. Prior to her directorship, she was appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to serve in several key roles, including Deputy Director of the Family Engagement and Empowerment Division, CalWORKs and Child Care Branch Chief, and Child Care and Refugee Programs Branch Chief.

With over 25 years of experience working in both community-based organisations and government, Ms. Johnson has consistently focused on advancing the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities most in need of resources. The mission of the California Health & Human Services Agency aligns with her professional purpose.