San Luis Obispo City Manager Derek Johnson has been selected as the next Chief Executive Officer of Marin County. Officials announced Thursday that Johnson will succeed retiring Marin CEO Matthew Hymel. His salary in Marin will be $355,098 a year.
“Derek Johnson stood out among a very competitive candidate pool in that he had the right combination of experience, innovation, and enthusiasm to be the next leader of the County," said Dennis Rodoni, Marin County District 4 Supervisor and Board President. "The Board was impressed with his achievements in strategic areas of focus for Marin, including housing and homelessness, climate sustainability, disciplined fiscal management, capital improvements, and equitable services."
“Returning to Marin County, where my family roots run deep, and having the privilege to serve its residents, has been a lifelong aspiration," said Johnson. "Public service has been a big part of my family history, and I am profoundly grateful for the trust and confidence bestowed upon me by President Rodoni and the Board. Leading the dedicated and talented team of employees committed to serving Marin County every day is an honor."
Johnson has managed SLO for the past six years. Previously, he was Assistant City Manager and Director of Community Development. He has also worked for Capitola and the County of Santa Barbara.
In a news release, SLO credited Johnson with shoring up the city’s long term financial stability through the Fiscal Health Response Plan. The release also praised Johnson for improving efficiency of city operations, renegotiating labor agreements, decreasing pension debt, and bringing in significant sources of additional revenue. During his tenure, the city established its first homelessness response strategic plan and created new positions to foster diversity, equity and inclusion in city government.
“We are thankful for Derek’s leadership at the city,” said Mayor Erica A. Stewart. “Derek’s guidance and fiscal responsibility leaves behind a city in good financial health with a talented team, who are prepared to carry on the important work of the city.”
The city will discuss how to fill the vacancy at a future meeting.
Though Marin’s current CEO steps down next month, Johnson isn’t scheduled to begin until April 29. Assistant County Executive Dan Eilerman will serve in the interim.