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 of the Department. He has more than 25 years of leadership, program management, and policy development experience in various roles across state agencies.
Pete joined the Department in 2020 when he was appointed as Chief of Data Analytics and Strategy by Governor Newsom. He has 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 Cal-EPA. Pete holds two degrees from the University of California at Davis.
Pete is a strong advocate for using comprehensive data to improve outcomes for Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Throughout his career, he has guided government programs to consider how family and culture affects each person served. He also seeks to advance care in the community for individuals throughout their lifespans, considering social, health, and environmental factors.
Last modified: December 16, 2024
