About Rich

Rich O'Brien is a results-driven leader with demonstrated accomplishments in both professional and community arenas for over 40 years. A natural and persuasive communicator, he is recognized for his keen ability to energize and inspire individuals while creating consensus among divergent groups. 

Rich’s professional experience includes a distinguished career in public service as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer/Postal Inspector for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Assistant Director of Investigations for the NJ Office of the State Comptroller.  These positions have given him extensive experience in:

• Criminal investigations

• Auditing

• Examining local government operations 

He holds a Master of Science in Management and the designations of Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Financial Crimes Investigator and Certified Master Facilitator.

Rich’s community experience is expansive and includes:

• Spotswood Board of Education President and elected member for eight years

• Spotswood Recreation Department Chair and appointed member for 21 years

• Member of the Knights of Columbus Council #4907, serving as Grand Knight from 2015-2017

• Certified Rutgers Clinician, teaching the SAFETY Class for many local youth sports coaches

• Spotswood PTA Life Member

• Spotswood Soccer Club Life Member

• Usher for Immaculate Conception Church

• Member of The Community Team of NJ, a nonprofit organization that provides for local families in need. 

Rich and his wife, Maryann have lived in Spotswood for over 35 years, raising their three sons here, Rick, Steven and Matthew. Rich is currently employed as a Safety Monitor at Spotswood High School.  

Together for Spotswood