Ken O’Brien – Treasurer Bio Page

Ken O’Brien is a lifelong public servant, educator, and financial professional whose career reflects an unwavering dedication to the well-being of Delaware County, Ohio. Elected as Delaware County Treasurer in 2024 and officially took office on September 1, 2025, Ken brings a strong commitment to the Treasurer’s Office’s core mission: serving the public with integrity and safeguarding the county’s financial assets with diligence and transparency.

Ken’s roots in Delaware County run deep—his family has lived in the county since 1827, building a legacy of community involvement and civic responsibility. His own record of service continues that tradition, combining decades of experience in education, finance, and public administration.

Before becoming Treasurer, Ken was elected twice as a Delaware County Commissioner. During his tenure, he guided budgetary decisions, supported infrastructure development, and helped lead countywide policy initiatives. His leadership emphasized integrity, fiscal accountability, and long-term planning.

Ken’s experience in financial markets as a former stockbroker complements his public sector expertise, giving him a unique perspective on fiscal stewardship and investment strategy. This combination of private-sector and public-service experience positions him to manage county funds prudently and to implement forward-thinking policies that benefit taxpayers.

Throughout his career, Ken has served in numerous key roles across regional and county organizations. He was Vice-President of the Central Ohio Youth Center, responsible for policy and budgeting for a four-county youth detention center. He also played an important role in emergency preparedness through the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and helped develop countywide hazardous materials plans as part of the Local Emergency Planning Committee. His work on the Threats Risk and Needs Committee included oversight of critical grant allocations.

Ken’s planning experience includes serving on the Delaware County Regional Planning Commission and its Executive Committee—where he was chair in 2011—making zoning and budgetary recommendations. He also served on the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission’s policy committee and was a board and policy committee member for the Delaware-Knox-Marion-Morrow Solid Waste District, helping shape environmentally responsible waste management practices.

In addition to his county roles, Ken was involved with the Community Action Organization of Delaware, Madison, and Union Counties, the Family and Children’s First Council, and the Community Improvement Corporation, working to support families and drive job creation. His contributions to Berlin Township include holding elected positions as both Clerk/Fiscal Officer and Trustee, where he was instrumental in policy and appropriation of funds for the township.

Ken began his professional career in education, teaching over 24 years and was National Board Certified. His time in the classroom grounded his leadership approach in empathy, collaboration, and a deep belief in public service.

As Delaware County Treasurer, Ken O’Brien brings together a lifetime of service, a commitment to financial responsibility, and a passion for preserving and improving the county his family has called home for nearly 200 years.