Kern County Executive and Leadership Team

Eric Nisbett, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Kern County, manages critical financial operations and fiscal planning for the organization. Nisbett oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability across county departments. This role is essential for maintaining the financial health of the county and supporting its long-term strategic objectives in the southern Central Valley. By analyzing financial performance and identifying opportunities for efficiency, Nisbett directly contributes to the effective use of public funds. The focus is on implementing sound financial management practices that enable the county to meet its obligations and invest in essential community services. Nisbett's guidance is paramount in navigating complex fiscal landscapes and ensuring the county's economic stability.

Keri Pharris, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, directs critical human capital strategies across the organization. Pharris oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, and compensation structures, ensuring alignment with the county's operational needs and public service mission. This leadership role involves developing and implementing policies that foster a productive and equitable work environment for all county employees. By managing workforce development programs, Pharris directly supports the county's ability to deliver essential services effectively. The focus remains on optimizing HR operations to enhance employee engagement and retention, thereby strengthening the county's overall capacity. Pharris's contributions are vital to maintaining a skilled and motivated workforce essential for Kern County's continued success in serving its constituents.

Michael Goulart, the Assistant Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of human resources functions. Goulart collaborates with the Chief Human Resources Officer and Deputy Chiefs to refine policies and programs related to employee benefits, performance management, and compliance. This role is integral to ensuring that HR initiatives effectively support the county's broader objectives, particularly in the southern Central Valley region. By analyzing workforce data and identifying trends, Goulart contributes to proactive planning for staffing needs and organizational development. The objective is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of HR services, ensuring a robust support system for all county departments. Goulart's efforts are key to maintaining a high-performing workforce dedicated to public service.

Kimberlyn Stillwell, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, drives initiatives focused on employee development and organizational culture. Stillwell champions programs designed to enhance professional growth, leadership training, and employee well-being across county departments. This position is crucial for cultivating a positive and supportive work environment that attracts and retains top talent. By assessing training needs and implementing targeted development plans, Stillwell directly contributes to the county's capacity to adapt to evolving service demands. The focus is on building a resilient and skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of governing in the southern end of the Central Valley. Stillwell's leadership ensures that human resources strategies actively promote employee engagement and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Al Bermudez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Kern County, directs the strategic implementation and management of information technology infrastructure. Bermudez oversees the development and maintenance of secure, reliable, and scalable IT systems that support county operations and public services throughout the region. This leadership role involves guiding technological advancements, ensuring data integrity, and enhancing cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information. By optimizing IT resources and exploring innovative solutions, Bermudez directly supports the county's efficiency and effectiveness in delivering services to its constituents. The focus is on leveraging technology to streamline processes, improve accessibility, and foster digital transformation across all departments. Bermudez's expertise is critical for modernizing the county's technological capabilities.

Monica Molica, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Kern County, leads initiatives focused on employee benefits and HR compliance. Molica ensures that county employees receive comprehensive benefits packages and that all HR practices adhere to federal, state, and local regulations. This position is vital for maintaining employee trust and satisfaction, contributing to a stable and productive workforce. By managing the administration of health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee programs, Molica directly supports the well-being of the county's personnel. The focus is on optimizing benefit offerings and ensuring equitable access, thereby enhancing the overall employee experience. Molica's dedication to compliance and employee welfare strengthens Kern County's commitment to its workforce.

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 engagement. This role is critical for shaping the county's public image and fostering positive relationships within the southern Central Valley community. By developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies, Briscoe-Clarke directly supports the county's mission to inform and serve its residents. The focus is on enhancing public understanding of county initiatives, services, and policies. Briscoe-Clarke's leadership ensures that Kern County's message is clear, consistent, and impactful across all communication channels.