The Hawkins Company, a Los Angeles-based retained executive search firm, announced today the successful appointment of Maraskeshia Smith as the Assistant City Administrator with the City of Oakland. After conducting a robust national search, Smith will take on her new role July 16. The search was led by Executive Vice President Brett Byers.

Reporting directly to the City of Oakland’s City Administrator, Smith brings more than 18 years of government experience with an emphasis in, organizational development, , community engagement and performance management, public works and emergency operations. Ms. Smith has been recognized for contributing to the City of Cincinnati’s neighborhood revitalization and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Some of her major achievements include:  overseeing the design and construction of the only LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy, 39,000 square-foot police station in the world; implementing the Capital Acceleration Plan; implementing the Fix It Cincy! App; restructuring the City’s Private Lot Abatement Program; and creating the Street Sweeping and Greenspace Master Plan. She strives to serve as a community agent for openness, collaboration, innovation, and transparency in government.

“Maraskeshia is a highly skilled and experienced professional who will be a valuable asset to the City of Oakland’s leadership team,” said Byers. “She is a recognized leader who understands the challenges urban cities like Oakland face and will bring a unique perspective and a collaborative problem-solving approach to this position.”

Smith will leave her role as Director of Public Services for the City of Cincinnati, where she demonstrated great success working with the community, collaborating across multiple departments and organizations, increasing inclusion and diversity and enhancing technology.