San Marcos names Economic Development Manager
San Marcos, CA— Tess Radmill, former Executive Director of Cardiff 101 Main Street, has been tapped to serve as Economic Development Manager for the City of San Marcos.
“We searched far and wide for the right person to step into this important role,” said City Manager Jack Griffin. “In Ms. Radmill, I believe we’ve found someone that understands the San Marcos vision –economic development that is good for our residents and good for our economy—and has the talent and skill set to help get us there by building a program from the ground up.”
Stepping into the new role Aug. 31, Radmill said she is ready to get to work in one of North County’s fastest growing cities.
“San Marcos has truly been innovative and embraces an entrepreneurial spirit that is unique,” said Radmill. “I am excited to be a part of the many upcoming projects that will shape the San Marcos community for years to come.”
As Economic Development Manager, Radmill will have a key role in attracting and retaining businesses in San Marcos. She is also charged with developing and managing an economic development program that aligns with city goals while capitalizing on the city’s partnership with the Innovate 78 initiative. Innovate 78 is a collaborative effort between the five 78 Corridor cities–San Marcos, Carlsbad, Vista, Escondido and Oceanside—that is focused on boosting economic prosperity in North County.
“I’m eager to hit the ground running and look forward to collaborating with and learning from the other Innovate 78 cities,” continued Radmill. “One of my first priorities will be to meet with San Marcos businesses to learn their goals and how the city can better support them.”
For the past seven years, Radmill has served as the Executive Director for the Cardiff 101 Main Street Association, a nonprofit that works with local government and business owners to improve the community’s overall quality of life.
Under her leadership, the Encinitas nonprofit grew from its grassroots infancy to a state-certified Main Street organization. By building strong partnerships with local business and community leaders, Radmill was able to grow the program to include two full-time staff members and an annual operating budget of $250,000. She also helped the City of Encinitas develop its economic development efforts as part of a steering committee, lending her expertise and guidance to city staff.
“I am proud of Cardiff 101 Main Street and my experiences there have given me a unique understanding for what it takes to successfully develop and nurture economic prosperity,” said Radmill.
Born and raised in North County, Radmill holds a bachelor of arts from Claremont McKenna College. She is also a recent graduate of Cal State San Marcos’ Leadership North County, a program that connects local leaders so they can work collaboratively to build a stronger region.
