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Phoenix Regional Office

Meet Our Leadership Team

Chris Norton

Director: Chris Norton

Director Norton, appointed in June 2016, is responsible for administering compensation, pension, and Veteran readiness & employment benefits for an extensive population of over 500,000 Veterans and their families residing in Arizona. Director Norton also supports the operations of a national call center, extending his assistance to Veterans nationwide.

Amanda French

Assistant Director: Amanda French

Amanda was appointed as an Assistant Director in March 2022. She shares responsibility for the effective and efficient direction, control, and operation of benefits delivery for Veterans and dependents residing in Arizona.

Walt Strong

Assistant Director: Walt Strong

Walt was appointed as an Assistant Director in July 2023. He shares responsibility for the effective and efficient direction, control, and operation of benefits delivery for Veterans and dependents residing in Arizona.

Christina Ramsey

Acting Veterans Service Center Manager: Christina Ramsey

Christina is Acting Veterans Service Center Manager. In this position she administers Compensation and Pension programs and provides other assistance regarding VA benefits and services to Veterans, Servicemembers, their families, and survivors residing in Arizona.

Jill Rufener

National Call Center Manager: Jill Rufener

Jill was selected for this position in April 2012. She is responsible for providing timely and accurate telephone service to Veterans, Servicemembers, their families, and survivors who call the toll-free number  1-800-827-1000.  

Kate Schoenlein

Acting Veteran Readiness & Employment Officer: Kate Schoenlein

Kate is Acting Veteran Readiness & Employee Officer. She ensures the effective and efficient administration of Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits to Veterans, Service members, their families, and survivors in Arizona.

Brandon Ollis

Acting Support Services Chief: Brandon Ollis

Brandon is Acting Support Services Chief. He is responsible for the oversight of the Financial and Administrative operations, including Payroll and Budgeting, Procurement, Auditing, Compliance, Facilities & Fleet Management, and Records and Credit Card Management.

Jesus Rodriguez

Human Resources Supervisor: Jesus Rodriguez

Jesus was selected for this position in January 2023. Leading the Human Resources department, Jesus is responsible for all employee and labor relations for the Phoenix Regional Benefits Office. 

Nikki Wilder

Analyst / Public Affairs Officer: Nikki Wilder

Nikki was selected for this position in July 2022. Nikki collaborates with community partners to engage Veterans and their families while building working relationships through effective communication and coordination. Her efforts help create a support environment, benefiting the Veteran community and strengthening the network of support available to them.