The San Diego Workforce Partnership (SDWP) has announced key leadership appointments to its two governing boards of directors, strengthening its commitment to workforce development and economic mobility in the San Diego region.
The Workforce Partnership’s two boards—the Workforce Development Board (WDB) and the Consortium Policy Board (Policy Board)—have oversight over the San Diego Workforce Partnership. They manage a variety of funding sources (public, private sector, and philanthropy) to implement targeted and measurable workforce development services throughout the San Diego County region.
Workforce Development Board
Jamie Gardner, Director of People Operations at Watkins Wellness, has been appointed as Vice-Chair of the Workforce Development Board after a successful tenure serving as Interim Vice-Chair.
“As we enter this new chapter, we are setting the stage for transformative growth and impact,” said Jamie Gardner, Director of People Operations at Watkins Wellness. “This board possesses the vision and expertise necessary to implement innovative workforce solutions that benefit our communities.”
Additionally, Efrem Bycer, Senior Lead Manager, Public Policy and Economic Graph at LinkedIn, has been selected as Treasurer of the Workforce Development Board, bringing valuable expertise to this role.
“The challenges ahead require bold, strategic leadership, and I am confident that with our new leaders at the helm, we will continue to create meaningful opportunities for workers and businesses across the region,” said Efrem Bycer, Senior Lead Manager, Public Policy and Economic Graph at LinkedIn. “With our new leadership, we are doubling down on our commitment to innovation and economic mobility.”
SDWP is excited to welcome our new leadership team and thank them for their commitment to workforce development in our region. Their expertise and dedication will strengthen our organization and create new opportunities for workers and communities throughout San Diego. With their guidance, we will tackle challenges, implement effective solutions and ensure everyone has the chance for economic mobility.
Consortium Policy Board
In parallel developments within the organization’s Workforce Policy Board, San Diego City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera has been appointed as the new Chair of the Consortium Policy Board, while San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe will serve as Vice-Chair, representing the City of San Diego and San Diego County respectively.
“These exciting new leadership appointments reflect our ongoing commitment to strong governance and innovative workforce strategies to benefit our region,” said Rachel Bereza, President and CEO of San Diego Workforce Partnership. “Each of these leaders brings high energy, unique perspectives and proven expertise that will be instrumental in advancing our mission to empower job seekers to meet the current and future workforce needs of employers in San Diego County. Their collective experience in their industries and elected roles will be invaluable as we work to connect San Diegans to sustainable employment opportunities and support our region’s economic growth.”
“San Diego’s economy should work for everyone—not just those at the top. As Chair of the Policy Board, I’m committed to ensuring that every San Diegan, regardless of their background or zip code, has access to quality jobs, fair wages, and a pathway to realizing their potential,” said Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera. “The Workforce Partnership is a crucial driver of economic opportunity, and I look forward to supporting action that puts working people first, uplifts our communities, and builds a more just and inclusive economy for all San Diegans.”
“Councilmember Elo-Rivera brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help guide this board to new heights,” said San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe. “I am excited to see how this new leadership will implement innovative strategies that create real opportunities for workers, especially those who have historically been left behind.”
The newly appointed WDB leaders will take on their roles starting January 16, 2025, and their terms will extend until June 30, 2025. The Policy leaders will begin their terms on January 23, 2025, which will continue for the rest of the year. This leadership will ensure strong guidance for both boards as they work to empower job seekers and businesses in San Diego County.