John McHugh named acting Secretary of West Virginia Department of Administration

CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Jim Justice has announced the appointment of John McHugh as the acting Secretary of the Department of Administration.

He will succeed Mark Scott, who has held the position since 2021. Scott has resigned effective at the end of July.

Gov. Justice says Scott did a good job but got “out over his skis.”

McHugh, who has been a state employee since 2006, previously served as the Deputy Secretary of Administration and Director of the General Services Division.

His extensive experience includes leadership roles in the Real Estate Division, Right of Way Division, and the Board of Medicine.

Additionally, he has contributed significantly to the West Virginia Military Authority’s Construction and Facilities Management Office and is a licensed West Virginia Contractor.

McHugh’s educational background includes a degree from the WVU College of Law and a master’s in strategic studies from the United States Army War College.

He retired in 2017 from the West Virginia Army National Guard after over 30 years of service, achieving the rank of Colonel.

His distinguished military career includes roles as Battalion Commander for the 771st Battalion Troop Command, Brigade Commander for the 77th Brigade Troop Command, and State Army Aviation Officer.

A veteran of Desert Storm, McHugh was awarded the Air Medal for his meritorious service as a Medevac helicopter pilot.