Mayor-President Sid Edwards Names Acting CAO During National Search

BATON ROUGE, LA - September 9, 2025 - Mayor-President Sid Edwards has announced that Dr. Christel Slaughter will serve as Acting Chief Administrative Officer while a national search for a permanent CAO is conducted.

Dr. Slaughter is the CEO of SSA Consultants in Baton Rouge, the firm that will lead the search process for a new CAO. She brings more than 30 years of experience guiding organizational change and planning initiatives nationwide, with a strong emphasis on public-sector leadership. Her expertise spans organizational design, performance improvement, strategic planning, and executive recruitment.

"From the moment I met Dr. Slaughter, I was impressed by her leadership and understanding of governmental operations. As Acting CAO, I know her experience and leadership will be essential to the day-to-day functions of our office while we lead the search for a permanent CAO. I feel certain that we have chosen the right person for this temporary leadership role," said Mayor-President Sid Edwards.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity to share my organizational skills and expertise with Mayor-President Edwards' Administration," said Dr. Slaughter. "I am grateful to be a part of this team and manage the search for a new leader."

Slaughter has directed major initiatives in Louisiana, including the East Baton Rouge City-Parish Green Light Plan, the Louisiana Emergency Response Network, and the state's multibillion-dollar coastal protection and restoration efforts. A nationally recognized consultant, educator, and civic leader, Dr. Slaughter brings unmatched experience and proven leadership to this role.