The Santa Cruz County Business Council (SCCBC) has selected Zoë Carter as the new Executive Director for the organization. The recruitment and selection process was led by an internal Hiring Committee and administered by outgoing Executive Director Emily Ham who will be onboarding Ms. Carter over the next week to prepare for the transition.

Ms. Carter comes to the SCCBC with extensive experience and knowledge on the issues that face the business community in the Central Coast. As a longtime community leader, she has supported the public policy development work of former First Lady Michelle Obama, the Panetta Institute, and most recently the Monterey County Business Council. She is also a former candidate for the Monterey City Council and California’s 30th State Assembly District which now spans from Live Oak in Santa Cruz County to San Luis Obispo County. 

SCCBC Board Chair Melissa Whatley remarks: “In addition to understanding the ins and outs of a member supported 501(c)6 nonprofit organization like the SCCBC, Ms. Carter is highly experienced in government affairs and economic development in Monterey Bay. The Santa Cruz County Business Council is fortunate to have found a leader with such skill, foresight and commitment to her community. We look forward to her paving the way for unprecedented impact on our local economy and workforce here in Santa Cruz County.”

The Santa Cruz County Business Council represents employers that share the mission of making Santa Cruz County a better place to live, work and do business. The Executive Director, Board of Directors and Council members work together to identify and support policies, projects, programs, and practices for healthier and more sustainable economic development. Key issue areas include housing, transportation, workforce, water infrastructure, and broadband. If you are interested in becoming a member of the SCCBC or hearing more about our work, please contact the new Executive Director, Zoë Carter at zcarter@sccbusinesscouncil.