Employment agreement approved for new San Luis Obispo County director of public health

San Luis Obispo County has appointed a new leader for its public health department. The Board of Supervisors officially approved the employment agreement for Suzanne Jed on Tuesday. She is scheduled to begin her tenure on August 2.

Jed brings over two decades of professional experience to the position. Her background includes extensive work with the U.S. Agency for International Development in the Dominican Republic. She has also led health programs across Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the United States. Local officials selected her due to her specific background in emergency preparedness, infectious disease prevention, and strategic program management.

This appointment follows the retirement of Dr. Penny Borenstein. Dr. Borenstein led local health policy for the county for 18 years. Board Chair Jimmy Paulding noted that the board is confident in the choice of Jed to protect resident well-being and prepare the region for future health challenges.

County records indicate that Jed will earn an annual salary of $263,723. Her compensation package includes an estimated $176,964 in benefits. She plans to work with local partners to continue the existing health initiatives within the county.