Gabriel J. Esparza

Governor Josh Stein named Gabriel J. Esparza Secretary of the NC Department of Administration and part of his inaugural cabinet team. Secretary Esparza began his new role Jan. 6, 2025.

As DOA Secretary, Esparza oversees the state agency whose mission is to serve as the business manager for North Carolina state government and a voice for traditionally underserved communities through its advocacy programs and boards and commissions.

The Administration Department oversees government operations spanning from building construction, facility maintenance, purchasing and contracting, and state vehicles to mail services, surplus, state properties and parking. The agency also provides programs and services for North Carolina’s diverse populations including women and youth, American Indians and historically underutilized businesses. Secretary Esparza is the first Latino to head a cabinet department in the state’s history.

Esparza joined DOA as a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience leading both public and private entities from government agencies and large corporations to nimble start-ups and local non-profit organizations. He previously served as the U.S. Small Business Administration's Associate Administrator for International Trade where he helped to create jobs, provide expanded access to capital and advocate for American small businesses around the world. Before that, Esparza spent 13 years in various leadership capacities at American Express including Vice President of Global Business Development in their Commercial Payments business. From 2009 to 2018, Gabe served on the Los Angeles Civil Service Commission and is currently a trustee for Central Piedmont Community College.

Esparza holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in International Relations from Stanford University.