Albemarle County has named Johnny Switzer as the County’s new Emergency Management Coordinator, effective June 1, 2026. Switzer brings nearly two decades of local government experience, most recently serving as Emergency Management Coordinator for the Town of Warrenton, Virginia.
Switzer joins Albemarle County as the organization continues to strengthen and expand its emergency management functions through the establishment of a stand-alone Office of Emergency Management reporting to the County Executive’s Office. The transition reflects an intentional focus on coordinated emergency planning, preparedness, response, recovery, and continuity of operations across the organization and throughout the broader region.
“Johnny brings direct, hands-on experience building emergency management programs from the ground up and overseeing complex emergency responses,” said Deputy County Executive Trevor Henry. “His collaborative leadership style and operational expertise will be a critical asset as we continue to strengthen Albemarle County’s preparedness and response capabilities.”
In Warrenton, Switzer led the development of one of Virginia’s newest independent emergency management agencies, securing recognition from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management in 2025. In his role, he oversaw emergency operations planning, emergency declarations, crisis communications, multi-agency coordination, training exercises, and continuity planning.
“I am honored to join Albemarle County and look forward to working alongside County staff, regional partners, and the community to continue building a strong, coordinated emergency management program,” said Switzer. “I believe in a ‘whole community’ approach to emergency management, where every resident, business, and local organization plays a vital role in our collective resilience. I am incredibly eager to serve a county as diverse as Albemarle, which spans vibrant urban spaces, critical infrastructure, and expansive rural landscapes. I look forward to ensuring all corners of our community are prepared, protected, and supported.”
In 2026, the Virginia Emergency Management Association recognized Switzer as the Outstanding New Emergency Management Professional of the Year for his leadership and contributions to the profession.
The creation of a stand-alone Office of Emergency Management marks the next step in the County’s ongoing efforts to build a comprehensive emergency management function. Albemarle County Fire Rescue has played a key role in developing and supporting the County’s emergency management function over recent years, including leadership from former Emergency Management Coordinator John Oprandy and Interim Emergency Management Coordinator Emily Pelliccia.