Mayor's Employee Initiatives

As a leader who values and recognizes the hard work and dedication of her employees, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava is committed to creating a positive work environment that fosters employee growth and development. Check out highlights of Mayor Daniella's involvement and engagement with Miami-Dade County employees.

Mayor's Message - Employee Appreciation

Here’s the mayor’s video message for Employee Appreciation Month 2026, highlighting her appreciation for the county’s nearly 30,000 employees who serve our community with purpose and dedication.

Croquetas with Cava

The Mayor actively participates in employee events and recognizes the importance of celebrating and uplifting her employees regularly. She encourages those in leadership roles to do the same as it builds morale, resilience and trust within the team.

Browse through photos from our quarterly "Croquetas with Cava" employee appreciation events.

January 24, 2025 
Department of Emergency Management, Strategic Procurement Department and People and Internal Operations Department

July 25, 2024
Audit and Management Services, Cultural Affairs and Public Housing and Community Development Departments

March 25, 2024
Office of Management and Budget, Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces and Seaport Departments

August 31, 2023
Corrections and Rehabilitation Department, Fire Rescue Department and Miami-Dade Police Department

May 19, 2023
Community Action and Human Services Department, Juvenile Services Department and Medical Examiner

March 3, 2023
Women’s Appreciation Month

Dec. 2, 2022
Public Information Officers Team Meeting

Aug. 25, 2022
Communications and Customer Experience Department (CCED), Elections Department and Information Technology Department

May 20, 2022

Animal Services Department, Aviation Department and Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER)

Dec. 3, 2021

Department of Solid Waste Management, Department of Transportation and Public Works and Human Resources Department

Oct. 8, 2021
Finance Department, Internal Services Department and Miami-Dade Library System

Employee of the Year

The Employee of the Year Award serves to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of Miami-Dade County employees who exemplify excellence and dedication to public service. By honoring individuals who embody these values, we not only acknowledge their achievements but also inspire others to strive for excellence in their roles within our County government.

List of Employee of the Year Winners:

2025 Employee of the Year Winners:
Antwane L. Thurston and Jeannette J. Vazquez

2024 Employee of the Year Winners: 
James “Jim” O’Connor and Theodore “Teddy” Harrell, Jr.

About Us

The People and Internal Operations Department ensures efficient County operations and fosters a thriving workforce by integrating internal services and human resources management. The department provides facility, construction, fleet, and risk management, along with ADA compliance, real estate, security, and parking services.

It supports workforce development through performance management, employee training, diversity programs, and collective bargaining, while addressing workplace policies, payroll, and workforce metrics. Additionally, the department resolves discrimination cases through investigation and mediation. Serving County departments, employees, and the community, it is committed to operational excellence and an equitable workplace.