John Bullard
John is a seasoned public administrator and financial strategist, currently serving as the County Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer for the Cullman County Commission. With a career spanning over two decades, John brings a wealth of experience in local government leadership, financial planning and operational efficiency.
Prior to his current role, he held the same position at the Blount County Commission, where he led fiscal and administrative reforms from 2017 to 2020. His earlier career includes roles as a Certified Financial Planner® at AC Financial Partners, Financial Consultant at Cadence Bank and Staff Accountant at Allison Accounting LLC. These roles honed his expertise in financial advising, tax strategy and client service.
John holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Financial Planning & Counseling from The University of Alabama, graduating summa cum laude. He also earned an Associate of Science degree in Business Administration from Wallace State Community College. His professional development includes certifications as a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Certified Financial Planner (CFP)®, Certified County Administrator, a Certificate in Lean Management and he is a graduate of NACO’s High Performance Leadership Academy.
With a commitment to ethical governance and community-focused leadership, John continues to champion transparency, fiscal responsibility and innovation in public service.
Derrick Swanson
Derrick began his career in the Fire Service in 1987, being promoted through the ranks to Fire Chief. He resigned in 2007 to work for the Alabama Fire College and Personnel Standards and Education Commission holding several positions to include Regional Coordinator, Director of Emergency Medical Services, and Training Group Supervisor until 2015. From March 2015 to December 2020, he worked with a Sheriff’s Office serving as Captain over Emergency Services. In 2023, he was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey to the position of Fire Commissioner for the Alabama Fire College and Personnel Standards and Education Commission until 2027, making him the first African American in the state of Alabama to do so.
Derrick is the current City Manager for the City of Talladega, AL possessing a Master of Science in Management; a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources; an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services-Paramedic; an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science; is a current National Registered Paramedic; has other job-related Certifications and knowledge that are conducive for team building and moving an organization forward to succeed. Derrick is the recipient of the 2024-2025 Alabama City County Management Association Sam Gaston Vocational Excellence Award.