Peggy Murphy Named Humboldt County Economic Development Director

Peggy Murphy was named director of Humboldt County’s Economic Development Division, a move that places a longtime local administrator at the center of efforts to coordinate business support, workforce programs and regional planning. The County announced the appointment on January 21, 2026, and Murphy began the role the week of that announcement.

Murphy brings more than 10 years of relevant experience to the post, including five years working within the County’s Economic Development Division. She previously served as Economic Development Program Manager and as Executive Director of the Humboldt County Workforce Development Board. Her résumé also includes a role as Operations and Programs Manager for the North Coast Small Business Development Center.

As Economic Development Director Murphy will oversee daily operations of the division, manage programs, lead projects and guide long-term strategic planning while working with local and statewide partners to strengthen collaboration and advance regional economic goals. That portfolio positions her to influence how the county coordinates grants, business services, workforce training and interagency partnerships.

The appointment has direct implications for residents, employers and jobseekers across Humboldt County. County-owned economic development functions affect business retention and attraction efforts, the administration of workforce-development funds, and the county’s role in securing state or federal resources. Murphy’s prior leadership at the Workforce Development Board and the Small Business Development Center signals continuity between workforce services and small-business support, two areas many local stakeholders identify as critical to post-pandemic recovery and long-term resilience.

Institutionally, the Economic Development Director serves as an internal coordinator between county departments and external partners such as regional agencies, business groups and state programs. Murphy’s experience within county ranks may streamline project handoffs and program implementation, but her success will depend on measurable outcomes and transparent reporting. Elected officials and residents will be able to assess progress through county budget documents, program performance reports and future announcements from the division.

For those tracking local economic policy, the County’s announcement is the first step in a transition that could shape priorities for grant applications, workforce initiatives and business support over the next several years. Humboldt County posts updates and additional information on the appointment and the Economic Development Division at humboldtgov.org/m/NewsFlash. Expect the division to outline immediate project priorities and opportunities for public input in coming weeks.