Sarah Henricks

Office of Continuous Improvement Director

Sarah Henricks joined the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) in early 2025, working directly on Hurricane Helene recovery. As the manager of the Grant Operations Unit (GOU), within the Office of Continuous Improvement (OCI) Henricks’ team quickly quadrupled its portfolio of Helene-focused recovery grants, established the Western NC Recovery Grants Program, and standardized processes within OCI’s disbursement process. Under Henricks’ leadership, the GOU has also spearheaded the implementation of a department-wide grant management system and assisted multiple divisions with grants, procurement, and communications, creating a collaborative, solutions-oriented environment. 

Henricks has worked closely with executive leadership, elected and appointed officials, members of the public, and a variety of stakeholders while working at the local government levels, across various departments. Prior to working in the public sector, Henricks had a career in the biotechnology industry, serving as a research analyst and production manager. 

 Henricks brings a science-based, systems-level approach to public administration, program management, and strategic operations. Her career priorities have always been centered on collaboration, exceptional customer service, and process optimization. Henricks is eager to bring that same focus to OCI to further DEQ’s goals and objectives.