Anthony Sims brought energy to the city’s Economic Development efforts in February which excited Ceres Chamber of Commerce officials. But after five months on the job, Sims has quit and moved on to accept a position with the City of Turlock as its Economic Development Director- Communications Officer. That places the city on the hunt for a new Economic Development manager.

“It was great to work with Mrs. (Renee) Ledbetter and the devoted Ceres Chamber,” said Sims, a lifelong Ceres resident and Ceres High School graduate. “Renee Ledbetter, and Brandy Meyer are key pillars to the Ceres community. The city staff and council were all very supportive to work with, and Mayor Lopez is an inspiring leader for the community. I truly enjoyed my time there.”

For the short duration with the city of Ceres, Sims was able to meet with 50 to 60 Ceres businesses to provide business resources including grant information, business consultant referrals, as well as workforce recruitment options.

“I was also able to collaborate with networks and groups such as the Ceres Chamber, the SBDC, and the Central Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to bring impactful events to Ceres such as business resource events, a job fair, as well as coordinate a free small business webinar for the city to co-sponsor.”

Sims was hired to replace Steve Hallam as the city’s Economic Development Manager. Hallam, had been the part-time manager since 2014.