Public finance veteran named to head California’s CAEATFA

A long-time veteran of the State Treasurer’s public finance office has taken the helm of the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority.

State Treasurer Fiona Ma Tuesday announced that she has appointed Christina Sarron as CAEATFA executive director.

She’s charged with providing policy, program, and technical direction for the authority and managing a staff team of approximately 30.

CAEATFA administers a sales and use tax exclusion program benefiting qualified manufacturers promoting alternative energy and advanced transportation.

Its full suite of programs, including private activity bonds for district heating and cooling, and qualified energy conservation bonds, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase the deployment of sustainable and renewable energy sources, and reduce fossil fuel dependence.

“Christina’s dedication to Californians and commitment to public service is evidenced by her 29 years of service in the Treasurer’s Office, starting with her entry into civil service as administrative support staff, then analyst and into program management,” Ma said in a statement. “Christina is an excellent fit to lead CAEATFA. Her leadership will help guide us toward achieving California’s climate goals.”

Sarron spent 23 years in the public finance division of the State Treasurer’s Office, rising to manage the state’s investor relations program, and two-and-a-half years with the Investments Division administering the $20 billion Local Agency Investment Fund. 

Sarron joins CAEATFA after serving nearly 3 years as deputy executive director of the California Pollution Control Financing Authority.

“I am so excited by the opportunity that Treasurer Ma has provided this opportunity to further my career with the State Treasurer’s Office and continue to work on assisting the state in meeting its clean energy goals,” Sarron said in a statement.