Tim Schaefer is staying on as California's deputy treasurer for public finance under the state's new treasurer, Fiona Ma.
Schaefer was former Treasurer John Chiang's senior financial advisor when Chiang was state controller and was named to his current role in 2015 when Chiang won election as treasurer.
Schaefer, founder of Magis Advisors, a public finance consulting firm in Orange County, Calif., has more than 40 years of experience in the municipal securities industry. As a consultant, Schaefer assisted the state with complex cash flow borrowings, the largest exceeding $10 billion, according to the treasurer's office.
Schaefer served more than 20 years on the Technical Assistance Committee to the California Debt and Investment Advisory Commission, and is a co-author of the California Public Funds Investment Primer, published by CDIAC in 2006, and has written articles on the field of municipal finance.
Chiang unsuccessfully ran for governor last year, ending his stint as treasurer after one term.
Two other deputy treasurers picked by Ma also carry over from Chiang's staff.
"I am surrounding myself with people who work just as hard as I intend to work on behalf of all Californians," Ma said.
Ma, who was sworn in as treasurer Jan. 7, had been a member of the California Board of Equalization since 2015. She was a state senator from 2006 to 2012 and before that served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
Audrey Noda, the new deputy treasurer of health and education, directed business development and external affairs for Chiang. Jovan Agee, named deputy treasurer of housing and economic development, was Chiang's deputy treasurer for legislative affairs.
Several of Ma's appointments worked with her in prior roles.
Genevieve Jopanda, the new chief of staff, began her governmental career as a district liaison to then Speaker Pro Tempore Ma in 2010. Most recently, she worked as Ma's chief deputy at the Board of Equalization.
Jopanda brings a record of success in developing and implementing methodologies that strengthen and maintain organizations, according to the treasurer's office. She has held supervisory or management positions with the San Francisco Chronicle, Hertz Corp., Zipcar and the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce. She is also a past recipient of the Filipina Women's Network Global 100 Most Influential Filipina Award.
Kasey O'Connor, the new legislative director, held a similar role under Ma at the Board of Equalization. Kathryn Asprey, the director of constituent affairs, worked as a senior tax policy advisor for Ma at the Board of Equalization. Glori Li, state director of external affairs, worked as a district liaison for Ma at the BOE.
Frank Ruffino, pension and benefits director, has served on the California State Employees Association board and as president of the Association of California State Supervisors. He has also worked a variety of leadership positions in government in categories as varied as corrections and fish and game.
