Whitley named to head Nevada’s Health and Human Services

Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval has named Richard Whitley director of Health and Human Services, the executive branch’s largest department.

Whitley has been interim director of the department since February when longtime director Mike Willden accepted the position of Chief of Staff in the governor’s office.

“Richard has proven to be a steady and capable leader,” said Sandoval in a statement. “This announcement will ensure continuity in a system that impacts many Nevada families.”

Whitley has been in state service since 1986 when he was hired as a senior psychologist at the women’s prison. He has also served as head of the health division.

As head of HHS, he will manage a staff of more than 5,500 employees and a budget totaling more than $4.5 billion.