Kern County Executive and Leadership Team

Eric Nisbett, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Kern County, directs the financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the county government. Nisbett oversees budget management, financial reporting, and the allocation of resources across various county departments. This leadership role involves ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with all financial regulations. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer also plays a part in developing long-term financial strategies to support the county's growth and service delivery objectives. Nisbett collaborates with the Chief Financial Officer and other executive leaders to maintain the county's financial health. By optimizing financial processes and controls, Eric Nisbett directly contributes to the county's ability to fund essential public services and infrastructure projects. This position is vital for sound fiscal governance.

Jashan Bal, the President at Kern County, leads the executive team in setting strategic direction and overseeing the overall governance of the county. Bal is responsible for driving the county's mission forward, ensuring efficient administration and the effective delivery of public services across the region. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration among departments and stakeholders to address community needs and promote economic development. The President guides policy initiatives and champions initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Kern County residents. Jashan Bal works closely with elected officials and community leaders to advance the county's objectives. By providing visionary leadership, Bal directly impacts the county's ability to respond to challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and improvement. This role is central to the county's operational success and public trust.

Kimberlyn Stillwell, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, directs critical functions within the human resources department. Stillwell oversees the implementation of strategic HR initiatives, focusing on talent acquisition, employee relations, and compensation structures. This leadership role involves ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering a productive work environment across county departments. By managing workforce development programs, Stillwell directly supports the county's operational efficiency and employee retention goals. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer also collaborates with other HR leaders to align departmental objectives with the broader mission of Kern County. Stillwell's oversight extends to policy development and the administration of employee benefits, ensuring comprehensive support for the county workforce. This position is vital for maintaining a skilled and motivated public service team.

Al Bermudez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Kern County, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the county's information technology infrastructure. Bermudez manages the deployment of technological solutions designed to enhance public service delivery and internal operational efficiency. This role involves overseeing IT security protocols, data management systems, and network infrastructure to safeguard county information assets. The Deputy Chief Information Officer also drives innovation in technology adoption, ensuring Kern County remains equipped with modern digital tools. Bermudez's responsibilities include managing IT projects, coordinating with external technology vendors, and ensuring the reliability of all digital systems. By optimizing IT resources, Bermudez directly contributes to the county's ability to serve its constituents effectively and securely. This leadership position is essential for maintaining robust technological capabilities.

Michael Goulart, the Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, supports the strategic management and operational execution of human resources functions. Goulart assists in developing and implementing policies related to employee recruitment, retention, and professional development. This position involves ensuring fair and equitable employment practices across all county departments, contributing to a positive and productive workplace culture. The Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer plays a key part in managing employee grievances and facilitating conflict resolution. Goulart also contributes to the administration of benefits programs and oversees compliance with state and federal employment regulations. By supporting the Chief Human Resources Officer, Michael Goulart directly enhances the county's capacity to manage its workforce effectively and maintain high standards of public service. This role is integral to the smooth functioning of the HR department.

Keri Pharris, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, directs key initiatives within the human resources division, focusing on employee engagement and organizational development. Pharris oversees programs designed to enhance workforce skills and promote career advancement opportunities for county employees. This leadership position involves ensuring that HR strategies align with the county's overarching goals for public service excellence. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer also manages aspects of performance evaluation systems and contributes to the development of training modules. Pharris collaborates with other HR leaders to foster a supportive and efficient work environment. By implementing effective employee relations strategies, Keri Pharris directly supports the county's mission to provide essential services to its residents. This role is critical for cultivating a high-performing public sector workforce.

Monica Molica, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, leads critical aspects of the human resources department, emphasizing operational efficiency and policy implementation. Molica oversees the administration of HR processes, ensuring compliance with all relevant labor laws and county regulations. This role involves managing employee onboarding, payroll administration, and benefits management to support the county's diverse workforce. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer also plays a role in developing and refining HR policies to meet evolving organizational needs. Molica collaborates with department heads to address staffing requirements and implement effective human capital strategies. By ensuring the smooth operation of HR functions, Monica Molica directly contributes to the county's ability to attract and retain qualified public servants. This position is fundamental to maintaining a stable and effective county administration.

Erin Briscoe-Clarke, the Chief Communications Officer at Kern County, directs the county's public relations and strategic communication efforts. Briscoe-Clarke oversees the dissemination of information to the public, media, and internal stakeholders, ensuring transparency and effective messaging. This role involves developing communication strategies that align with the county's mission and operational objectives. The Chief Communications Officer manages media relations, crisis communications, and the county's digital communication platforms. Briscoe-Clarke collaborates with various departments to craft compelling narratives about county initiatives and services. By enhancing public understanding and engagement, Erin Briscoe-Clarke directly supports the county's commitment to community outreach and service delivery. This position is crucial for maintaining positive public perception and fostering strong community ties.