SALISBURY, MD – The City of Salisbury’s Arts, Business and Culture Department plans to expand development and business outreach with two new roles.
Derek V. Jarmon Jr. joined the Arts, Business and Culture Department this week as economic development manager, while Jamie Nichols, who has been working at the Salisbury Zoo for about two years, will now serve as development supervisor.
Jarmon comes to the City of Salisbury from Maryland’s Coast, where he coordinated youth sports and clinics and broadened community engagement. Most recently, he was the program manager of special events and oversaw sponsorship, community engagement and marketing.
As economic development manager, Jarmon will serve as the link between local businesses and the City of Salisbury, with a particular focus on Downtown Salisbury. A Berlin native, he hopes to bring enthusiasm, new ideas and a new vision, along with strategy and execution to the position.
“As the City’s new economic development manager, I’m eagerly anticipating the chance to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our community in meaningful ways,” Jarmon said. “I’m looking forward to fostering innovation, attracting investment, and creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike. It’s an exciting time to be involved in shaping the future of our city, and I’m ready to dive in and make a positive impact from day one.”
Nichols has recently moved into the role of development supervisor at the Salisbury Zoo, having previously served as an administrative assistant and then as office manager.
In this role, Nichols will be involved in revenue-generating efforts for the Salisbury Zoo, which offers free admission and parking to its guests. She will help the Zoo in working toward regaining its accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and will work closely with the Zoo’s director, Chuck Eicholz. She’ll work with sponsors and donors and serve as the liaison to the Salisbury Zoo Commission. Nichols will also oversee the Guest Services department, which includes the Ocelot Shop, concessions, programs, events and facility rentals.
“With the new Guest Services department, we’ll be able to better serve our guests at the Salisbury Zoo,” Nichols said. “I’m excited to help move the Zoo forward with new member events and streamlined processes for memberships and facility rentals. This position allows me to be the contact for aspects of the Zoo that didn’t quite have a go-to person in the past.”
The Arts, Business and Culture Department reworked existing roles, so full-time staff positions did not have to be added to the department to make these roles possible. To learn more about Downtown Salisbury and its businesses, visit www.DowntownSBY.com. To learn more about the Salisbury Zoo, visit www.SalisburyZoo.org.
