Pete Cervinka was appointed Director of the California Department of Developmental Services (Department) on December 13, 2024 by Governor Gavin Newsom. Prior to his appointment, he served four months as acting Director. He has more than 27 years of leadership, program management, and policy development experience in various roles across state agencies. Pete wants government to do better for individuals and families, using data, information, and infrastructure to focus on goals and outcomes in a whole-person way, while considering economic, social, health, and environmental factors.
Pete joined the Department in January 2021 when he was appointed as Chief of Data Analytics and Strategy. Prior, he held several other executive branch positions, including Chief Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer for the California Department of Social Services, and Assistant Secretary with the California Health and Human Services Agency. He also has worked at the California Department of Finance and the State Water Resources Control Board. Pete holds two degrees from the University of California at Davis.
Last modified: November 6, 2025