The Bucks County Commissioners recently filled three leadership positions.
Margie McKevitt was appointed chief operating officer. Rachael K. Neff was named director of human services. Bernard A. Griggs Jr. recently began work in the newly created position of project and diversity officer.
“It is my absolute joy and honor to introduce these new leaders to Bucks County government,” said Commissioners Chairwoman Diane Ellis-Marseglia. “Ms. McKevitt’s management style and drive is perfect as Bucks County moves to enhance and improve service, while Ms. Neff captured us with her knowledge and thoughtful approach to dealing with the myriad issues facing social services today. Having known and admired Mr. Griggs for many years, I know he will bring a necessary wisdom and informed approach to issues of diversity and developmental projects.”
Added Commissioner Bob Harvie: “One of the most important jobs of any elected executive is to find, hire, promote and empower high-quality people to help run the government. I’m thrilled to have had a part in making Ms. McKevitt, Ms. Neff and Mr. Griggs part of the county’s leadership team. The people of Bucks County should be proud to have people with their skills, intelligence and experience working for them.”
Commissioner Gene DiGirolamo said the new leaders “were selected for their exemplary performance in their chosen fields and a track record of devoted service and success. We are so excited to have them on board and see how their contributions will enhance our beautiful Bucks County.”
McKevitt, a 36-year veteran of county government, was named interim COO in mid-February, replacing Brian Hessenthaler, who retired on Feb. 14. The appointment was made permanent a month later.
McKevitt, a Warrington resident, most recently served as community services division leader.
Neff is charged with overseeing a division comprising more than 330 employees and an annual budget exceeding $240 million, most of it devoted to serving, protecting and strengthening children, the elderly and people contending with mental illness and developmental challenges. She succeeds Jonathan Rubin, who resigned last fall to become Pennsylvania’s deputy secretary for the Office of Children, Youth and Families.
Neff is the former director of Special Court Programs for the State of Delaware Family Courts.
Griggs, who started July 1, is responsible for overseeing capital projects across a range of county departments and agencies to ensure timely completion and compliance with county, state and federal labor standards and requirements.
A Chalfont resident, Griggs also will work with the county’s Human Resources and Law departments to prepare and implement a countywide diversity and inclusion plan aimed at recruiting a more diverse workforce and training staff on cultural, racial and gender awareness.
He served 18 years as business representative for the Philadelphia Building Trades Council and oversaw the Building Trades Council’s Minority/Neighborhood Workforce Inclusion Program.
