SamCERA Announces Appointment of Paul Okada as Chief Executive Officer

Following a nationwide search, the San Mateo County Employees’ Retirement Association’s (SamCERA) Board of Retirement has appointed Paul Okada as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer. “I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as SamCERA’s next Chief Executive Officer,” said Paul. “SamCERA plays a vital role in the financial security of employees across multiple agencies in San Mateo County, and I look forward to collaborating with our talented team and the Board to continue supporting our members and employers with transparency, integrity, and long-term stability.”

Paul’s appointment follows a months-long recruitment process which attracted candidates from across the public pension and financial sectors. After a multi-stage evaluation and interview process, the Board selected Paul based on his strong leadership record, deep institutional knowledge, and commitment to SamCERA’s mission.

Paul has served as SamCERA’s Retirement Chief Legal Counsel since 2021, overseeing the legal operations of the system, advising the Board of Retirement, and working with staff across the full spectrum of SamCERA’s operations. Prior to joining SamCERA, Paul was a Chief Deputy in the County Attorney’s Office where he supervised several legal teams and advised County leadership. Before joining the County, Paul practiced employment litigation with Proskauer Rose LLP in New York and later worked on corporate securities matters with Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in Palo Alto.

He holds a bachelor’s degree with honors from UC Berkeley and a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law, where he served as Articles Editor of the NYU Law Review and President of the Asian American Law Students Association.

Paul’s appointment, which was formally approved by the Board at its November 4, 2025 meeting, will become effective on January 4, 2026, in order to provide for a period of transition with current CEO Scott Hood who is scheduled to retire at the end of March.

“Paul has been a trusted advisor and respected leader within SamCERA for years,” said Scott Hood, SamCERA’s current Chief Executive Officer. “His deep understanding of the organization and commitment to public service make him an exceptional choice to lead SamCERA into its next chapter. I am confident the organization will continue to thrive under his leadership.”

Leadership Transition

SamCERA also announced that Daniel Valim, currently Chief Deputy County Attorney for San Mateo County, will be transitioning into the role of Retirement Chief Legal Counsel effective January 4, 2026. Dan brings extensive experience in public law, leadership, and litigation management, ensuring continuity and strong legal guidance for SamCERA and its members.