Jean Riley

MAYVILLE — Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel on Tuesday announced that Jean Riley, county director of human resources, will resign from her position effective April 16.

“My family and I have made the decision to relocate and will miss beautiful Chautauqua County,” Riley said. “I thank the county executive for the opportunity to serve my community and for all the support and encouragement I received during my time with the County.”

Riley first began her career with the county on August 10, 2020, when she was appointed as director. Throughout her career with the county, Riley helped ensure the workplace entitlements of all employees; maintained statutory compliance with federal, state and county requirements; facilitated employee recruitment; and promoted fair hiring practices while enforcing county policies. She also has managed collective bargaining agreements and was lead negotiator for three union contracts with the five recognized labor organizations in county government.

In addition to these duties, she also oversaw the administration of New York State Civil Services for 68 entities within Chautauqua County including local school districts and municipalities with responsibilities for over 5,800 Civil Service employees.

“For nearly two years, Jean has been an exceptional leader for our Human Resources Department and I have been honored to have her be a part of my team,” Wendel said. “She has worked tirelessly to foster and create a fair, consistent environment for all county employees. I thank Jean for her incredible and exemplary service to Chautauqua County and I wish her the best with her future endeavors.”

Wendel said he will soon begin the process of finding a replacement and will establish a bi-partisan search committee to help him find the county’s next human resources director.