The City of Richmond appointed Amy Popovich as the next deputy chief administrative officer for Human Services on Tuesday.

Popovich previously served as nurse manager for the Richmond and Henrico health districts, where she oversaw more than 100 clinical staff and developed programs connecting public health with community needs. She has more than a decade of experience in public health initiatives in Richmond.

“I’ve seen firsthand what she can accomplish and the level of servant leadership she brings to a team,” Mayor Danny Avula said. “I can’t think of a better person to step in, hit the ground running, and lead our Human Services portfolio.”

The Human Services portfolio includes the Office of Community Wealth Building, Department of Justice Services, Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities, Department of Social Services and the Richmond Public Library.

“The departments that make up the City’s Human Services portfolio serve residents all across Richmond, including some of the most vulnerable, and I have no doubt Amy will build on her experience and thrive in her new role,” said City Council President Cynthia I. Newbille.

Popovich replaces Traci DeShazor, who had led the Human Services portfolio since 2023 before recently stepping down.

She will assume her new role April 28, with Director of Social Services Shunda Giles serving as acting DCAO until then.