Simone Sawyer-McFarland

Simone Sawyer-McFarland has extensive experience in economic development and public relations across various government and private sectors. Currently serving as the Assistant Director of Business and Economic Development for the City of Burbank since January 2017, responsibilities include managing economic development, housing, real estate, and homelessness initiatives. Previously, Simone held the position of CEO at Synergie Associates, providing marketing and business development expertise. Prior roles include Economic Development Manager for the City of Sierra Vista, Arizona, and the County of San Bernardino, where Simone was instrumental in creating economic development departments, developing strategic plans, and overseeing significant budgets. Simone's earlier experience includes working as a Public Information Officer for the cities of Murrieta and Riverside, focusing on marketing, communications, and public relations. Simone holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of California, Riverside.