Santa Cruz County on Monday named Sandra Mendez as its next chief probation officer, selecting a veteran corrections administrator with more than 20 years of experience in community-based justice programs.
Mendez will take over leadership of the county’s Probation Department on Feb. 2, county officials announced. She joins Santa Cruz County after serving in senior leadership roles in several probation departments, most recently as deputy chief in Madera County.
County Executive Officer Nicole Coburn said Mendez was chosen for her experience and leadership approach.
“Sandra brings the right combination of experience, integrity, and vision,” Coburn said in a statement. “Her background positions her well to lead the department into its next chapter while maintaining a strong focus on public safety, rehabilitation, and staff support.”
In Madera County, Mendez oversaw operations, staffing, budgeting and long-term strategic planning for youth correctional facilities and programs. She previously spent five years leading the county’s Adult Services Division.
“Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to public safety while helping individuals build pathways toward stability and success,” Madera said in a prepared statement. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff and community partners to strengthen outcomes for the people we serve.”
Her background includes front-line supervision, program development and executive management. County officials said she has led multi-million-dollar initiatives, managed large multidisciplinary teams, and overseen facility operations and capital projects. Her responsibilities have included budget development, grant administration, procurement, contract oversight and compliance with state and federal regulations.
Mendez began her career as a correctional officer, parole agent and deputy probation officer before advancing into supervisory and executive roles. She holds a degree in criminology from California State University, Fresno, and is bilingual. County officials also cited her collaborative leadership style and experience working across justice, health and community-based systems.
She has received professional commendations for program innovation, staff mentorship and interagency collaboration.
Mendez will succeed the current chief probation officer upon assuming the role early next year.
