East County EDC

New leader at East County EDC in Matt Sanford

East County News Service
 
Feb. 26, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The East County Economic Development Council has named Matt Sanford as its new President and CEO, with plans coming for a new chapter as the region’s economic growth continues
 
Following a competitive nationwide search that drew more than 300 applicants, Sanford was selected to succeed James Sly, who departed late last year to lead the Grossmont Healthcare District. Sanford officially will start on March 23.
 
"Honored to join San Diego East County EDC and looking forward to this next chapter, supporting East County businesses and shaping the ecosystem for what’s to come," Sanford wrote on his LinkedIn page on Thursday.
 
Sanford arrives with nearly 20 years of experience in the San Diego County economic landscape. His resume includes a recent tenure as the Economic Development Director for the City of Carlsbad, overseeing business attraction, retention strategies and an annual budget of more than $1 million.
 

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Grossmont Healthcare District announces James Sly as CEO

By Karen Pearlman

Nov. 4, 2025 (East County) – The Grossmont Healthcare District has a new Chief Executive Officer. 

Santee resident James Sly was unanimously approved by the five-member GHD board to be the Grossmont Healthcare District CEO and lead the organization on Tuesday afternoon.

Sly, who has been the CEO of the East County Economic Development Council since December 2020, will start as the GHD CEO on Dec. 15. His salary will be $270,000 a year with a yearly $5,000 stipend.

Aaron Byzak, who has been the interim CEO for the Grossmont Healthcare District since March 2025 following the GHD board's decision to not renew the contract of Christian Wallis, will stay as interim director until Dec. 19, and he will continue to be the communication strategy consultant for the GHD.


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