SACRAMENTO — Zack Olmstead was sworn in today as Chief Deputy Director of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). He was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom on April 2, 2020.

Olmstead is stepping up from his role as deputy director of housing policy development at HCD, in which he has served since 2017. Olmstead was also assistant director of homelessness and housing policy from 2016 to 2017. Most recently he has been working closely with the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency on the COVID-19 response in housing.

"I'm thrilled to assume this role at HCD and continue serving the state," said Olmstead. "It's not lost on me that I'm taking on this position during Public Service Recognition Week, and I'm excited to join the great team of public servants Governor Newsom has brought together to tackle California's housing issues. I look forward to working with Secretary Castro Ramirez, HCD's new director Gustavo Velasquez, and the entire team at HCD."

Before joining HCD, Olmstead was senior assistant to Speaker Toni G. Atkins in the California State Assembly from 2013 to 2016. Olmstead was also homeless policy director at Housing California from 2006 to 2013. He earned a Master of Public Policy and Administration degree from California State University, Sacramento.