Contact Us

DEREK ARMSTRONG

Director
Derek oversees the County’s Economic Development efforts to promote business growth, retention, and attraction of new businesses in the region. Additionally, working through partnerships, he works to promote the region for filming, foreign direct investment, and international trade.

ANA AMBRIZ

Executive Secretary II
Executive Administrative Assistant to Director Derek Armstrong.

Manage calendars and requests for meeting. Field email and phone calls regarding department services. Provide team support.

BRIAN JORGENSEN

Business & Fiscal Analyst
Analyzes and makes recommendations in the development of various budgets and fiscal procedures; justifies and presents less complex budgets; controls departmental purchases and expenditures; reviews financial data on an on going basis to ensure conformance with established guidelines; recommends and establishes general fiscal procedures to improve department operations based on cost/benefit studies.

RYAN NIESEN

Manager
Ryan manages the day-to-day operations of the team, overseeing the successful outcome of the various requests that come through the Economic Development Department.  In addition, Ryan runs point on the department’s foreign direct investment opportunities, coordinating these efforts with County’s growing number of partners.

KAREN ESPINOSA CABRAL

Business Development, Film Office
Karen Espinosa Cabral oversees a diverse range of initiatives crucial to fostering growth and prosperity in San Bernardino County. She strategically manages marketing, graphic design, and communications efforts, utilizing digital media platforms to amplify the department’s initiatives. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating events, retail and tourism initiatives, and collaborating closely with community-based organizations, business owners, and chambers of commerce. Karen’s multifaceted approach extends to providing invaluable assistance in site selection, conducting market analysis, and facilitating projects, all aimed at bolstering economic vitality and fostering sustainable development within her jurisdiction.

GEORGE TORUNO

Business Development, Film Office
George is responsible for coordinating film and photography permits for commercial activities in the unincorporated regions of San Bernardino County. Beyond processing permits, he also provides tailored suggestions for filming locations based on the needs of production companies. He also offers insights into the county’s business potential and connects entrepreneurs with county resources to support their endeavors. Additionally, he provides guidance in site selection for businesses seeking to either relocate or expand their operations within the county.

GEORGE SANCHEZ

Business Development
George specializes in conducting market analysis, using demographic and labor market data to guide strategic decision-making for both internal and external stakeholders. Collaborating closely with strategic partners, he also focuses on entrepreneurship and small business development through tailored training programs. Lastly, George also assists in coordinating key meetings and events, nurturing relationships with international trade partners.

MATTHEW HICKEY

Business Development
Matt primarily focuses on business retention and expansion efforts throughout the County.  Matt works with businesses of all types operating in the unincorporated areas of the County sharing programs, resources and analysis from partners to help them achieve success and growth.  Matt also serves as a liaison to local Chambers of Commerce, attending events and conferences in the region to network with businesses and make them aware of the assistance the County offers.

KASSIE VICKERS

Intern
Kassie is responsible for coordinating film and photography permits for commercial activities in the unincorporated regions of San Bernardino County. She also assists in providing site selections in businesses looking to open operations in San Bernardino County.

JADEN BRADFIELD

Intern
Jaden is responsible for coordinating film and photography permits for commercial activities in the unincorporated regions of San Bernardino County. He is also responsible for assisting with site selection for businesses, as well as assisting in conducting market analysis, using demographic and labor market data to guide strategic decision-making for both internal and external stakeholders.