Annapolis Mayor Jared Littmann Nominates New City Finance Director

Mayor Jared Littmann has nominated Karen B. Ajayi, to serve as the City of Annapolis’ new Finance Director, city officials announced last week. 

According to the announcement, Ms. Ajayi has served as Deputy Finance Director since late February and brings more than 20 years of public and private financial management experience, including work with Anne Arundel County government and leadership roles with “Big Four” accounting firms.

“We are fortunate to be able to promote talent from within our own ranks,” Littmann said. “Karen represents the very best of public service, and I am confident her background in finance and her vision for fiscal responsibility will serve the City for years to come.”

The Finance Department manages the City’s operating and capital budgets, bond sales, investment portfolio, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, grants, and compliance with state and federal accounting laws.

Acting Finance Director Joel Pallikal has led the department since the former Finance Director resigned in November 2025.

Ms. Ajayi is scheduled to go before the City Council for confirmation on Monday, June 8. If confirmed, her annual salary will be $187,500.