Nicole Richardson appointed DWC Administrative Director

The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) announced that Nicole Richardson was sworn in as administrative director of the Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) on September 1, 2026, following her appointment by Governor Gavin Newsom on August 25. Richardson previously served as DWC's acting administrative director and chief counsel.

As administrative director, Richardson will continue to oversee DWC's statewide operations, programs and services, including its administrative courts, Research Unit, Return-to-Work Supplement Program, Independent Bill Review, Independent Medical Review, Audit and Enforcement Unit, Uninsured Employers Benefits Trust Fund and Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund.

Richardson has more than 20 years of experience in California's workers' compensation system. She joined DWC as staff counsel in 2017 and advanced through several leadership positions within the division's Legal Unit, including staff counsel IV and chief counsel. Earlier this year, she was named acting administrative director, leading the division through a period of executive transition and overseeing the implementation of key regulatory initiatives.

Earlier in her career, Richardson served as staff counsel at the State Compensation Insurance Fund and Pacific Compensation Insurance Company, and practiced employment law at SiliconBay Training.

Richardson holds a Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University School of Law, and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of California, Berkeley.

DIR's Division of Workers' Compensation monitors the administration of workers' compensation claims and provides administrative and judicial services to help resolve disputes related to claims for workers' compensation benefits.

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