Macomb County Finance Director Steve Smigiel announces 2025 retirement plans, transition process begins

After over 34 years of dedicated service to Macomb County, Finance Director Steve Smigiel has announced his intention to retire in early 2025. Smigiel's tenure as finance director has been marked by his commitment to maintaining the county's exemplary financial position with a strong AA+ bond rating and ensuring fiscal responsibility through disciplined budgeting and financial stewardship.

"I've known Steve for years and his leadership and financial expertise have been invaluable to Macomb County," said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. "While we are sad to see him go, we are grateful for his decades long dedication and for staying on to help with the transition. His guidance will ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our county."

Smigiel has played a key role in guiding the county through numerous financial milestones, including the adoption of sound fiscal policies that have secured Macomb County's stability, allowing the county to adequately and fairly compensate employees, fund the new Central Intake and Assessment Center without using additional taxpayer dollars and secure bond financing to fund the county's retiree health care liability. In anticipation of his retirement, the county will soon begin a search for a new Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

"The past 34 years have been incredibly rewarding," Smigiel said. "I am proud of the work we've accomplished, and I am confident that the county will continue to thrive under new leadership. I look forward to working closely with my successor to ensure a smooth and successful transition. While stepping away is bittersweet, I am excited for this next chapter. I would like to offer my gratitude to Executive Hackel for appointing me as finance director and to Dave Diegel, who hired me into the county, as well as John Foster and Pete Provenzano for their guidance and wisdom through the years."

The timing of Smigiel's retirement will depend on the successful identification and hiring of the new Director/CFO. To support the transition, Smigiel will remain with the County in an advisory capacity until the new Director has appointed their Deputy Director. His advisory role will focus on mentoring the incoming leadership, offering insights and historical context to ensure the continuity of the department's work. The goal is to have a full transition complete by December 31, 2025.

As the county initiates the search for Smigiel's replacement, the selection process will prioritize finding a candidate who can uphold the county's high financial standards while also bringing fresh perspectives to the role.

Tom Lehrer
586-808-3452
[email protected]

Department:County Executive

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