David Topaz appointed as Renton's HRRM Administrator

RENTON, WA (JUNE 12, 2025) –– Mayor Armondo Pavone has appointed David Topaz to the position of Human Resources Risk Management (HRRM) Administrator for the City of Renton. Topaz joins the city from previous leadership roles in both California and Washington, serving in human resources and government organizations.

Of the appointment, Mayor Pavone remarked, “David has a wealth of experience to draw from and will serve our mission well as we enter into a new chapter for the City of Renton. We’re a growing city, and our staff is keeping pace with this to accurately serve the needs of our residents. Our people are our number one asset, and we are lucky to have a team of talented professionals who are passionate about serving the residents of Renton well every day. Leading our Human Resources and Risk Management department is a key role in continuing a culture of excellence and providing a high level of service to our community.” 

Topaz’s appointment follows a nationwide search after the retirement of the previous department administrator. Throughout his career, Topaz has shown a commitment to building organizational structure, developing culture, and striving to create opportunities for local residents and youth to consider a career in public service. 

"The opportunity to return to the Puget Sound was compelling, and the City of Renton is known for being a center of innovation and opportunity. I’m looking forward to building upon a wonderful foundation of culture and excellence and implementing new programs to best serve our staff and residents,” remarked Topaz. 

Topaz has 35 years in public service and private labor law firm experience, including roles in labor negotiation for King County, the City of Tacoma, and as a labor consultant working in over 65 municipalities. He served for 13 years as a Police Officer for the City of Sacramento, including as President of the Sacramento Police Officers Union for four of those years. Topaz’s experience includes teaching university-level classes on Public Administration as an Adjunct Professor, and he most recently served as the Vice President of Employee Development and Engagement for the Sacramento Regional Transit District. Topaz holds Bachelor of Arts from Oregon State University, a Masters in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco, and holds a SHRM- Senior Certified Professional Certificate and resides with his wife in the City of Renton. 

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About the City of Renton 

The City of Renton, Washington, with a population of 108,800 (2024), is located on the southeast shore of Lake Washington, just south of Seattle. Renton is the 17th most diverse city in the nation. Renton's strong economic base, diverse marketplace, and favorable business climate have attracted nationally recognized companies wishing to provide employees and their families with an outstanding quality of life. Renton is the home of Boeing, PACCAR, IKEA, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Sounders FC, and the eternal resting place of rock icon Jimi Hendrix. You can find more information on our website, news releases, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Nextdoor pages.