Kern County Executive and Leadership Team

Eric Nisbett, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Kern County, manages the fiscal integrity and budgetary planning for the regional government. Overseeing the allocation of public funds across the Central Valley, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer ensures strict compliance with state and local financial regulations. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams and expenditure patterns to maintain the long-term economic stability of the county. By developing comprehensive financial models, Eric Nisbett supports the strategic decision-making processes of the Board of Supervisors. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer coordinates with various departments to streamline procurement processes and enhance fiscal transparency. Through rigorous oversight of capital projects and operational budgets, Nisbett secures the necessary resources to sustain essential public infrastructure and community programs throughout the Bakersfield metropolitan area and surrounding regions.

Al Bermudez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Kern County, directs the digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks supporting regional government operations. Overseeing the modernization of county-wide data systems, the Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity across the Bakersfield metropolitan area. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions to improve public service delivery and data accessibility for residents. By implementing advanced network protocols, Al Bermudez strengthens the technological resilience of the county against emerging digital threats. The Deputy Chief Information Officer collaborates with department heads to align technical initiatives with long-term administrative goals. Through the optimization of internal software platforms, Bermudez drives operational efficiency and supports the broader mission of providing transparent, accessible government services to the diverse population residing within the southern Central Valley.

Keri Pharris, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, directs talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the regional government. Overseeing the recruitment of specialized personnel, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the county maintains a highly skilled workforce capable of delivering public services across the Central Valley. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs and performance management systems to foster professional growth. By implementing equitable hiring practices, Keri Pharris strengthens the organizational culture and promotes diversity within the public sector. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with department leaders to address staffing needs and improve employee retention rates. Through the administration of benefits and compensation structures, Pharris supports the overall well-being of the county staff, ensuring the workforce remains aligned with the strategic objectives of the Bakersfield metropolitan area.

Monica Molica, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, manages labor relations and organizational policy implementation for the regional government. Overseeing the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer ensures harmonious workplace environments across the Central Valley. This leadership role involves interpreting complex employment laws and maintaining compliance with state labor standards. By resolving personnel disputes and facilitating effective communication between management and staff, Monica Molica promotes operational stability. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer develops internal policies that govern employee conduct and professional development standards. Through the continuous refinement of human capital strategies, Molica supports the administrative efficiency of the county, ensuring that all departments possess the necessary personnel to serve the Bakersfield metropolitan area effectively and maintain high standards of public service.

Michael Goulart, the Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, executes operational support for personnel administration and benefits management. Overseeing the daily functions of the human resources department, the Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer ensures accurate record-keeping and regulatory adherence across the Central Valley. This leadership role involves managing the logistics of employee onboarding and the administration of health and retirement programs. By streamlining administrative workflows, Michael Goulart improves the responsiveness of the human resources team to the needs of the county workforce. The Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with senior leadership to implement organizational changes and support departmental initiatives. Through the diligent oversight of personnel data and compliance reporting, Goulart maintains the integrity of the county employment records, facilitating a productive work environment for all staff members serving the Bakersfield metropolitan area.

Kimberlyn Stillwell, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, directs health and safety initiatives and employee wellness programs for the regional government. Overseeing the implementation of workplace safety protocols, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer ensures a secure environment for all personnel operating throughout the Central Valley. This leadership role involves managing workers' compensation claims and developing strategies to reduce occupational hazards. By promoting wellness initiatives, Kimberlyn Stillwell enhances the overall health and productivity of the county workforce. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer coordinates with safety committees to identify risks and implement preventative measures. Through the continuous monitoring of safety metrics and compliance with state health regulations, Stillwell supports the organizational commitment to employee welfare, ensuring that the staff remains capable of providing consistent public services to the Bakersfield metropolitan area.

Erin Briscoe-Clarke, the Chief Communications Officer at Kern County, directs public outreach and media relations for the regional government. Overseeing the dissemination of information to the public, the Chief Communications Officer ensures clear and consistent messaging across the Central Valley. This leadership role involves managing digital platforms, press releases, and community engagement campaigns to keep residents informed about county initiatives. By developing strategic communication plans, Erin Briscoe-Clarke strengthens the relationship between the government and the citizens of the Bakersfield metropolitan area. The Chief Communications Officer collaborates with department heads to highlight key projects and public service achievements. Through the effective use of media channels and public forums, Briscoe-Clarke promotes transparency and encourages civic participation, ensuring that the mission and activities of the county are communicated accurately to the diverse communities residing within the region.