Governor Parson Announces Department of Social Services Director Knodell to Step Down for New Opportunity in January

DECEMBER 17, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that Department of Social Services (DSS) Director Robert Knodell will step down at the conclusion of Governor Parson's term in office on January 13, 2025. After serving three years as DSS Director, Knodell has accepted the opportunity to be the City Manager of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, his hometown.

“Robert has been a tremendous asset to the State of Missouri and a dedicated public servant for more than a decade,” Governor Parson said. “He has been a trusted member of my Cabinet, a key partner in advancing our initiatives, and also a dear friend. I remain ever grateful that, regardless of the challenges, Robert answered the call to serve in leadership within both DSS and the Department of Health and Senior Services. Teresa and I wish him, along with his wife Mandy and their daughter, the best in this new opportunity to serve his beloved hometown, Poplar Bluff.”

“Returning home to lead the city that has supported me for so long is both an exciting and bittersweet moment,” DSS Director Knodell said. “DSS has been my home for the past three years, and I will treasure the lasting friendships and colleagues I have made during my tenure as director.”

Since his appointment by Governor Parson in 2021, Director Knodell has made significant strides in empowering Missourians to lead safe, healthy, and productive lives.

He has focused on advocating for workforce compensation, collaborating closely with the Parson Administration and the General Assembly to secure historic pay raises for team members, increase shift differentials for those working evening and overnight shifts, and implement innovative workplace solutions.

Additionally, he has successfully expedited crucial technology updates and departmental projects, aiming to replace outdated systems to manage workloads more efficiently and enhance services for over two million Missourians.