Director Kaitlyn Perez currently serves as the leader of the Sarasota County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs division; she is also the agency’s public information officer. Her position supports more than 1,000 employees who interact with more than 450,000 community members daily. Director Perez is a problem solver and idea generator, and her efforts are a significant reason her agency is held in high regard by the community.  

In 2021, Director Perez helped lead the agency’s strategic planning process, launched an in-house television program, managed an agencywide recruitment campaign, and elevated the image of her organization by launching campaigns related to mental health and how the agency serves vulnerable populations. Last year, Director Perez also volunteered to take on the mission to help a family that was trapped in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover. A deputy for her agency, an Afghan-born combat linguist, had family members whose lives were in danger due to his work with U.S. troops. Thanks to the tireless work and support of Director Perez, 32 members of the deputy’s family gained permanent housing and jobs and all the children were enrolled in school. Her work on this project will have a long-term generational impact on this family. 

Director Perez is a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, a graduate of Saint Leo University’s 23rd Command Officer Management Program, and recipient of multiple internal and external awards. In 2021, she was named a 40 Under 40 Leader by the Business Observer.  

“I am fortunate to be able to effectuate real change… my work in law enforcement is allowing me to help build a safer and more vibrant community.”