Employee Spotlight
20 Years of Dedication: Celebrating Martha Gibbs
April 25, 2025
Honoring Two Decades of Leadership, Heart, and Service
This month marks a remarkable milestone for Martha Gibbs—20 years of service to SBCAG. As the Chief Financial Officer and Human Resources Director, Martha has been a guiding force behind the scenes, steering the agency with a rare blend of precision, empathy, and quiet determination.
Over the past two decades, Martha has helped shape the very foundation of SBCAG’s financial systems, championed a workplace culture built on trust and respect, and led with a heart as strong as her spreadsheets. And now, as she prepares to retire after 39 years in public service, we take a moment to reflect on the legacy she leaves behind.
We sat down with Martha for a special Q&A — an opportunity to reflect on her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the legacy she leaves behind. Whether you’ve worked with her, learned from her, or simply shared a laugh in her office, this is for everyone who has had the privilege of crossing paths with Martha.
Reflecting on a Career in Public Service
You’ve dedicated 39 years to public service, with 20 of those at SBCAG—what inspired you to pursue a career in government finance and human resources?
“When I started, my focus was finance—I just knew I wanted a job in a field I enjoyed. Public service felt like a natural fit. It wasn’t just about numbers; it was about contributing to something greater than myself. Human Resources came later, almost unexpectedly, beginning with my work as a union steward. It turns out I was pretty good at connecting with people. HR wasn’t a stretch—it felt natural, and it gave me another way to support others in meaningful ways.”
Looking back at your 20 years with SBCAG, what are some of the accomplishments you’re most proud of?
“There are a few things. Implementing new technologies was a big one. From modernizing payroll and procurement systems to launching Office 365 and transitioning to cloud-based file sharing, these tools made us more agile and efficient. But more than the tech, I’m proud of the culture we built. I’ve always believed that every role—no matter how big or small—matters. Creating an environment where people feel respected and valued has meant everything to me. Lastly, ensuring compliance, transparency, and accountability in our financial systems has given us the structure and trust we needed to thrive.”
Leading with Purpose
As a leader, what values have guided your work and how have those shaped SBCAG’s organizational culture?
“It really comes down to the Golden Rule: treat others how you want to be treated. Be transparent, be intentional, and trust your team. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredibly talented people who share those values. Our Executive Director set the tone, and that sense of mutual trust became the foundation of our culture. I truly believe that’s why we’ve been successful together.”
Can you share a moment or project that stands out as especially meaningful to you?
“I’ll never forget my first day in 2005. My supervisor asked what I wanted to tackle first, and I said, ‘Let’s bring ADP to SBCAG.’ Back then, we were using a standalone computer that had to dial into a mainframe just to submit payroll—and if the modem failed, we had to call in our payroll over the phone. I knew there was a better way. It was the start of our transition to more efficient systems, and I’m proud that ADP is still in use today—just in a much more modern form!”
Looking to the Future
As you prepare to retire, what thoughts or reflections do you have about SBCAG’s future?
“SBCAG is in good hands. I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent 20 years with such an amazing group of people. It’s humbling to think I had even a small part in its success. I have no doubt the agency will continue to lead important projects that benefit our county—and I’m proud to have helped lay a foundation they can continue to build on.”
A Personal Note
What will you miss most about working at SBCAG?
“The people. Absolutely, the people. This place has been more than a job—it’s been a second family. I’ve seen so many come and go, and I remember the unique spark each person brought to the team. I’ll also miss the work itself. Being part of something that makes a real difference in our community? That’s special. It’s not just what we do—it’s why we do it.”
Behind the Scenes
After nearly four decades in government, there must be some memorable moments—can you share a fun or unexpected story?
“Oh, where to begin! When I started in government back in the ’80s, people could still smoke in the office—can you imagine? The real turning point came in 2005, when a former manager, long retired, called me out of the blue and encouraged me to apply at SBCAG. I was hesitant—unsure of myself, unsure about starting over—but I took a leap of faith. I filled out that paper application (yes, paper!) and went in for the interview. It just clicked. I remember telling my husband, ‘If I don’t get this job, I don’t know what more I could’ve done—it just felt right.’ And here I am, two decades later, grateful every day that I took that chance.”
What’s one thing people might not know about you that helped shape your professional journey?
“My father was an immigrant who was college educated but did not have it very easy when he first came to the United States. Like so many, he started out working in the orchards picking lemons and avocados. My mom was born here but put off college to raise our family. They both worked incredibly hard to give us the best shot at a good life and taught us the value of showing up and doing the work, no matter what.
When I was about 11, they opened a shoe repair shop in downtown Santa Barbara. Weekends and summers were spent there—fixing shoes, helping customers, doing whatever was needed. I loved working the register and keeping track of inventory—it felt like playing store, except it was real life. One summer, they taught me how to get the books ready for their CPA, and something just clicked. Accounting made sense to me—it was logical, organized, and I liked seeing how all the pieces fit together. When the CPA put together the final reports, I knew my work helped make that happen. And here I am, almost 40 years later—still keeping the books, and still loving it.”
Farewell, But Not Goodbye
As Martha prepares for the next chapter—hitting the road in an RV to explore the country, maybe adding another dog to the family—she leaves behind a legacy of innovation, compassion, and rock-solid integrity. Her fingerprints are all over the systems that keep SBCAG running, but even more so, in the hearts of the people she’s mentored, led, and inspired.
Her parting advice… “Work hard and be your authentic self. Don’t be afraid to take chances even if you are afraid. It will work out, trust me….”
Thank you, Martha. You’ve made SBCAG a better place—and we’re all better for having known you.
