Alan Fernandes – Biography
Alan Fernandes is a distinguished legal and government affairs professional and entrepreneur whose career spans over two decades of leadership in business, government, law, and public administration. Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) Finance Corporation, Mr. Fernandes leads a groundbreaking business incubator dedicated to empowering local governments across California with innovative solutions in public finance, infrastructure, and policy implementation. His leadership at CSAC exemplifies his long-standing commitment to strengthening the capacity and sustainability of public institutions.
Mr. Fernandes earned his Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 2003 where he completed a certificated concentration on Taxation, after completing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis in 1997. His legal education and early career experiences established a strong foundation in both the technical and ethical dimensions of public law. He began his legal career clerking for a federal district court judge, gaining firsthand insight into the judicial process and constitutional principles that underpin American governance.
Before joining CSAC, Mr. Fernandes served as the Chief Lobbyist for Los Angeles County, the nation’s largest county government. In this role, he played a central part in shaping landmark policy initiatives on a range of critical issues including justice reform, environmental sustainability, healthcare, tax administration and regional economic development. His work was instrumental in translating complex public needs into actionable legislative outcomes that continue to benefit millions of California residents.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Fernandes worked at a preeminent government and political law firm, where he advised Fortune 100 corporations, cities, counties and school districts, as well as municipal utilities, and corporations focusing on energy, banking, insurance and finance sectors. He has also counseled elected officials on compliance, strategy, and governance. His broad understanding of the legal and political ecosystem made him a trusted advisor at the intersection of public interest and private enterprise.
A dedicated public servant beyond his professional roles, Mr. Fernandes served two terms as an elected member of a local school board, where he championed teacher pay increases, equitable educational opportunities, and modernization of school facilities. Under his leadership, the district not only won the trust of taxpayers through several initiative campaigns, such as fiscally responsible bond measures but also ensured that resources were targeted toward underserved and high-need student populations.
In addition to his practical contributions to law and policy, Mr. Fernandes is also a published scholar. He authored a law review article on Ethics in Government, offering critical insights into transparency, accountability, and the ethical frameworks necessary for sustaining public trust in democratic institutions.
Mr. Fernandes’ work has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Most recently, in 2025, he was honored with the Award for Excellence in Government by the Southern California Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration—a recognition of his enduring impact on the field and his visionary approach to public service.
With a deep belief in ethical governance, institutional integrity, and inclusive policymaking, Alan Fernandes continues to serve as a guiding force for innovation and excellence in the public sector.