Gbeh founded and served as the President of the San Diego County Democratic Farmer Coalition, a San Diego County Chartered Democratic Club and Political Action Committee.
SAN DIEGO (March 8, 2023)—The San Diego County Building Industry Association today announced it has hired Hannah Gbeh as its new Vice President of Government Affairs.
“I am thrilled to have Hannah leading Government Affairs as BIA’s new VP,” said Lori Pfeiler, President and CEO of the BIA. “Hannah understands our sense of community really only comes when we have enough homes for San Diego families. She has the right experience for our association.”
Gbeh has an extensive background in environmental science and political advocacy. She currently works as Principal Environmental Planner for SWCA Environmental Consultants. She starts her now role with the BIA later this month. Prior to working at SWCA, Gbeh served as Executive Director of the San Diego County Farm Bureau from 2019-2022. At the BIA, Gbeh replaces Matt Adams, who is retiring March 31 following a successful 25-year career with the BIA.
“It’s an honor to join the BIA,” said Gbeh, who brings nearly a quarter century of experience as a teacher and researcher of environmental science, with a focus on land use regulations. “I’m looking forward to working with Lori and the team to help ensure our region has enough homes, infrastructure, and services to accommodate San Diegans and future generations. The challenges we face are great, but there is no better organization advocating for housing than the BIA.”
Gbeh holds a degree from the University of Michigan in environmental science, with a minor in global climate change and a focus on environmental justice. She is a County of San Diego Qualified Environmental Impact Report Preparer and holds Gubernatorial and Supervisorial appointments. In addition to Gbeh’s professional experience, she has farmed for nearly a decade within the County of San Diego, including owning farms in Jamul, Valley Center and Bonsall. In 2017, Gbeh founded and served as the President of the San Diego County Democratic Farmer Coalition, a San Diego County Chartered Democratic Club and Political Action Committee.
“All of us at the BIA are excited about Hannah and the skills she brings to our advocacy work,” said BIA Board Chair Chris Hall. “She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the job and a strong voice with a deep understanding of our housing crisis and the challenges facing people who need a home and the people who build those homes. She is a great addition to the team.”
Pfeiler added: “Hannah is uniquely qualified. Interesting, at this time when housing is such a crisis, the BIA and so many institutions are women-led. I look forward to working alongside Hannah and seeing what she accomplishes on behalf of San Diego families.”
