Imperial County, CA - Imperial County is pleased to announce the appointment of Bari Bean as the County’s new Assistant County Executive Officer. This internal promotion recognizes Bean’s expanded responsibilities, demonstrated leadership, and central role in advancing some of the most complex and important initiatives in the County’s history.
Bean most recently served as Deputy County Executive Officer for Natural Resources, focused on extensive initiatives for the development of Lithium Valley while also executing four additional County and intergovernmental roles: County Development Concierge, Tribal Liaison, Regional Innovation Officer (a federally funded position), and California Lithium Ombudsman (a state-funded position established through Senate Bill 125). Collectively, these responsibilities reflect a scope of work that extends well beyond a traditional deputy role and places Imperial County at the center of state and federal energy, innovation, and economic development efforts. During her last two years as Deputy CEO, Bean led the development of numerous County policies, legislative and strategic marketing initiatives, and economic development frameworks designed to elevate Imperial County’s competitiveness, improve coordination across departments, and strengthen the County’s position with state, federal, and private-sector partners. Her work has focused on translating complex initiatives into actionable programs that deliver measurable benefits to both residents and businesses.
In her new role as Assistant County Executive Officer, Bean will maintain previous responsibilities while expanding her focus on Countywide strategic initiatives, community services, and enhancing County growth. As a key strategic initiative, Bean will continue to lead Lithium Valley on behalf of the County, advancing a coordinated strategy that integrates geothermal energy, lithium extraction, advanced manufacturing, workforce development, infrastructure planning, and community benefits. As Assistant County Executive Officer, Bean will collaborate closely with planning and permitting, economic development, and public works, to expand operational efficiencies, refine budget opportunities, develop new regionwide initiatives, and ensure Imperial County is a place where responsible development is encouraged and supported. Bean will continue serving as the County’s Development Concierge, focused on attracting large-scale investments that generate new revenue, create quality jobs, and establish long-term pathways for community improvements and public benefits.
Bean’s professional background includes experience in the energy industry with BHE Renewables, leadership with workforce development and chambers of commerce, entrepreneurial initiatives with local agriculture entities, where she was awarded Global Small Pet Food of the Year at the world’s largest expo
in Shanghai, as well as government proposals and advocacy in Washington, D.C. with Fortune 100 companies. This combination of public and private-sector experience has enabled her to bridge policy, innovation, and implementation in ways that deliver tangible outcomes for the region. Bean holds an Executive MBA in Energy from the University of Oklahoma, a master’s degree from Georgetown University in Marketing, Communication and New Media, and a business certification from Harvard University. Her undergraduate degree in Digital Arts from Chapman University has served as a foundation for directly supporting County strategic communications, marketing, design, and public engagement endeavors.
“I’m grateful for the County’s confidence and honored to continue serving Imperial County in this expanded leadership role,” said Bari Bean. “Imperial Valley is my home, and I care deeply about its future. As a lifelong resident of the region, improving opportunities for our residents is personal to me. For as long as I can remember, our communities have dealt with high unemployment, aging infrastructure, and tough environmental conditions. Imperial County deserves better roads, expanded services, and diverse career opportunities. New revenue is essential to achieving these things and to creating opportunities people can see and feel in their daily lives. I’m committed to attracting thoughtful development and creating strategic solutions that bring good jobs, new investment, and the resources needed to reach the quality of life our Valley deserves,” said Bean.
Bean also acknowledged the unwavering support of her husband, Todd Bean, and her family, whose encouragement continues to motivate her commitment to public service.
Bean’s appointment reflects Imperial County’s commitment to empowering experienced leaders to help the region reach its full potential. “Bari has consistently taken on complex responsibilities, built strong partnerships, and delivered results across multiple disciplines. Investing in leaders who are deeply committed to our community, our operations, and our long-term priorities strengthens the County as a whole and positions us well for the future. This position allows Bari to stay focused on today’s strategic initiatives, including Lithium Valley, while also providing leadership across departments to advance future priorities and deliver real, practical progress for our communities.” said County Executive Officer, Kathleen Lang.
As the County continues to address longstanding challenges while pursuing new opportunities, Bean’s focus on regionwide strategic initiatives strengthens the County Executive Office and reinforces a collaborative leadership structure under the direction of the County Executive Officer. This approach is intended to enhance coordination, support Countywide priorities, and ensure the Executive Office has the capacity to advance both day-to-day operations and long-term initiatives. Through thoughtful planning, accountability, and strong partnerships, Imperial County is moving forward with a shared focus on progress and results for communities across the region.