Mark S. Barnes

Chief of Staff

Mark Barnes became Chief of Staff in June of 2025, bringing more than three decades of experience in public administration, financial management, and operations leadership to the State Treasurer’s Office.

Most recently, Barnes served as Chief Administrative Officer for South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness, where he was responsible for all internal and financial operations for both the state agency and its associated nonprofit. During his tenure, he oversaw a $110 million budget, led the organization’s transformation into a standalone state agency, and worked closely with the General Assembly and Board of Trustees.

Barnes is also a seasoned educator, having taught graduate-level finance courses at the University of South Carolina, Boise State University, and Webster University. Earlier in his career, he held several leadership positions at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), including Legislative Liaison for Public Health Services and District Administrator for the Pee Dee region.

A certified government finance officer, Barnes holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from the University of South Carolina. He is also a graduate of multiple leadership programs, including the Southeast Public Health Leadership Institute and the Academy for State Management.