Daniel Johnson serves as general counsel for the N.C. Department of Transportation and senior advisor to the Office of the Secretary. He plays a key role in strategic planning, contract and personnel oversight and decision-making for critical infrastructure projects across the state. Johnson also acts as a liaison between NCDOT, the Governor’s Office, other agencies and board members. Appointed general counsel in May 2019, he previously served as deputy general counsel. His career includes private practice and public service as an assistant district attorney in Wake County. A U.S. Navy veteran, Johnson served as a surface warfare officer before working for U.S. Sen. Max Cleland of Georgia. A native of Hickory, he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His legal and leadership experience supports NCDOT’s mission to deliver safe, efficient and innovative transportation solutions.