RALEIGH, NC - Governor Roy Cooper has announced that Jessica Holmes, a Pender County native, is set to assume the position of North Carolina State Auditor, succeeding Beth Wood, effective December 15, 2023. With an extensive background in government and the law, Holmes, currently serving as Deputy Industrial Commissioner, brings a wealth of experience to this crucial role.
Governor Cooper commended Holmes for her dedication, stating, "North Carolina is fortunate to have a dedicated, enthusiastic public servant in Jessica Holmes willing to take on the important role of State Auditor, and I am confident that she will lead the department with determination and hard work."
As the lead evaluator for all state government agencies, including universities, colleges, and the judiciary, among others, the State Auditor plays a pivotal role in ensuring agencies adhere to state laws, utilizing proper financial controls, and meeting performance standards. Holmes, an accomplished attorney and former chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners, expressed her commitment to applying her legal expertise in asking tough questions and ensuring the proper use of state funds.
Holmes, who is a Pender High School graduate (2002), has dedicated her legal career to areas such as public schools and education, workers' compensation, and labor and employment law. Notably, she represented North Carolina teachers as an attorney for the NC Association of Educators and served as a board member and former chair of the North Carolina Foundation for Public School Children.
Reflecting on her upcoming role, Holmes stated, "I will bring my legal expertise to the office by asking tough questions and ensuring agencies are spending state money legally, effectively, and efficiently. I look forward to taking on this important role for the coming year. I will be filing for election to this seat next week."
Governor Cooper expressed his gratitude to Auditor Beth Wood for her years of service and announced Holmes's appointment at a Thursday afternoon news conference.
Holmes's remarkable achievements include being the youngest county commissioner ever elected in Wake County in 2014, twice elected as commission chair, and receiving various accolades such as the 2022 Triangle Business Journal 40 Under 40 and the Distinguished Alumni Award from UNC Chapel Hill in 2018.
As a native of Maple Hill, Jessica Holmes's appointment to the role of North Carolina State Auditor is a source of pride for our community, and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact she will make in this crucial position.