Jim Zenner

Director, Military & Veterans Affairs | United States Army

James Zenner

Director, Military & Veterans Affairs | United States Army

Jim Zenner was appointed Director of Military and Veterans Affairs for Los Angeles County in August 2022. Since taking on this role, he has significantly expanded the department in alignment with the priorities of the LA County Board of Supervisors. Under his leadership, the department acquired the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), launched dedicated divisions for homeless services and justice-involved veterans, and co-founded the Warrior Heritage Foundation (WHF)—a public-private partnership designed to elevate veterans into leadership roles across the county.

 

Jim also plays a prominent role in shaping veteran policy at the state and national levels. He serves as: Legislative Chair for the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO), National Policy Director for the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), Vice Chair of the Veterans and Military Services Advisory Council for the National Association of Counties (NACo).

 

Prior to his current role, Jim worked at the LA County Department of Mental Health as a Program Manager, where he led the implementation of VPAN. His earlier career includes leadership roles with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Cohen Veteran Network Clinic at USC, and Volunteers of America Los Angeles, where he began his social work career after transitioning out of the military.


A U.S. Army veteran, Jim served for seven years on active duty and in the reserves. He holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Southern California.