FitZSimmonds appointed chief deputy clerk of court

By Bennie Scarton Jr.

Published: May 13, 2008

Former State Senate candidate Robert S. FitzSimmonds has been appointed Chief Deputy Clerk of Court, replacing Wendy Jones who retired after 32 years in the office.

Clerk of Circuit Court Michele McQuigg said she is excited that FitzSimmonds is joining the Clerk’s office.

“Bob and I have been associates for some time and have a good working relationship. His banking experience will be an asset to the office. Also, Bob’s commitment to strong customer service mirrors my own.”

FitzSimmonds has extensive finance and management experience, including 14 years in the banking industry as a banking center manager and lending officer. He also has previous experience working federal, state and local government. In addition, he has six years of legislative staff experience.

He twice ran against State Sen. Charles Colgan, but was defeated both times.

FitzSimmonds took over the deputy clerk position on April 1 and said so far “I’ve found the position to be a wonderful new challenge for me. I’ve always enjoyed working with the public.”

He added: “I’m involved with a lot of new projects to update the clerk’s office.”

He said effective about July 1 the two clerk locations — one at 9248 Lee Ave. and the other at 9311 Lee Ave. on the third floor of the Judicial Center — will be combined into a central office in the Judicial Center.

The clerk’s office, normally open for business from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday except holidays, is divided into six sections: land records, court administration, executive administration, public service, dispute resolution and law library.

McQuigg was elected to the position in last November’s general election and will serve for eight years. The office has about 55 employees.

FitzSimmonds lives in Bristow with his wife, Debbie, and their four children. They are active members of Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church in Centreville.

The position pays $70,000 a year.