The Coconino County Board of Supervisors recently appointed James Jayne to serve as the county's interim manager after the current manager Cynthia Seelhammer announced her resignation.

According to the county, Jayne will serve as Coconino County manager and provide overall management of the county's government functions as the board of supervisors begins its process for hiring a permanent county manager.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity given to me by the board of supervisors and I look forward to working closely with the board, other elected officials, department directors and the team members who serve the county,” Jayne said in a press release. “I will continue to build strong relationships and partnerships with the communities, local governments and organizations throughout the county to help meet the needs of our residents.”

Jayne, who joined the Coconino County staff in August, was serving as the director of special initiatives where he oversaw the county's public affairs, community relations and public works. Prior to serving with Coconino County, Jayne served as the Navajo County manager and executive secretary for the Arizona Corporation Commission. He also served as the chief of staff in the Arizona House of Representatives and worked in the U.S. Congress.

Jayne is a graduate of Northern Arizona University, and earned his MPA and certified public manager certification from Arizona State University.