Blending his experience working with nonprofit groups and his expertise in business, John Fowler temporarily took the helm of EconAlliance as the North County organization looks to move to another level.

Fowler began his job in February and was introduced at the organization’s Growing Possibilities Ag Forum at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, but he declared his work done.

“I’m kind of the turnaround guy. I come in and fix things,” Fowler said.

The organization has hired Ignacio “Nash” Moreno to serve as the chief executive officer. Moreno, who is set to begin his new job June 1, previously served on the Santa Maria Public Airport Board of Directors.

“We believe that Nash will be a new leader for this organization as we continue to focus on workforce development and building connections with industry in the North County,” said Laurie Tamura, EconAlliance board president.

EconAlliance leaders note “the huge impact” Fowler made in a short period of time: “John joined EconAlliance in late February and, through his extensive executive experience and deep understanding of the local region, he has played a pivotal role in transforming the organization into a stronger, more effective entity serving Northern Santa Barbara County. His keen insight and proactive approach led to key improvements that have positioned EconAlliance for continued success.”

In a short time, Fowler said, the organization had moved offices, raised funds and hired staff, while he served as a headhunter to find a permanent chief executive officer.

“They’re ready to have a long-term CEO, not just a turnaround CEO,” he said.

After working as a consultant to help turn around nonprofit organizations across the country, he welcomed a chance for focusing on a group in his own backyard. 

“It’s a very impactful business — it’s connecting, collaborating and helping the community grow. That was real attractive to me,” he added.

Fowler arrived at EconAlliance with more than 35 years of accounting, corporate and nonprofit management experience.

His past jobs included stints as chief administrative officer and executive vice president at Mid-State Bank in the 1990s and overseeing restoration projects for the California Missions in San Luis Obispo and San Miguel. He later spent 10 years with People’s Self-Help Housing Inc. focused on creating affordable housing.

EconAlliance, now in its 13th year, works to build awareness and support for local industries while advocating for economic vitality in the North County for the area stretching from the Gaviota tunnel to the Santa Maria River.

“Collaboration, I would say, is a big deal for EconAlliance and for me personally. I love connecting people,” Fowler said. “It’s really just connecting people who should be talking to each other.”

One newer program has seen EconAlliance connect employers with future employees via paid internships that could lead to permanent careers. The program, which is free for employers, has had several participants.

A few times a year, EconAlliance holds forums highlighting the challenges and opportunities affecting local industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, aerospace and technology along with issues affecting housing and workforce supply. 

The organization also will hold its sixth yearly Cross-Industry Challenge Golf Tournament on Aug. 10 at the Santa Maria Country Club to raise funds for the group’s workforce programs. 

Organizers are seeking sponsors and raffle prize donations plus team registrations.

For information on sponsorship levels, team registration and more, click here.