Fairfax City EDO Staff

Chris Bruno
Director
Economic Development Office
Christopher.Bruno@fairfaxva.gov
Twitter: @chrisbruno84

Director Bruno serves as the City liaison to the Economic Development Authority and is responsible for coordinating the economic development priorities of the City’s leadership with the Authority’s strategic plan.

Nicole Merlene
Senior Assistant Director
Economic Development Office
Nicole.Merlene@fairfaxva.gov

Nicole leads the business development and investment efforts for Fairfax City. Through business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts, her goal is to ensure the City has a healthy office market and is a great place to do business.

Matt Easley
Assistant Director for Finance and Operations
Economic Development Office
Matthew.Easley@fairfaxva.gov

Matt oversees the administration, budget and operations for the Fairfax City EDO. He works on financials, scheduling, resource allocation, staff management and assists with projects as needed.

Serrita Farnsworth
Business Community Engagement Specialist
Economic Development Office
Serrita.Farnsworth@fairfaxva.gov

Serrita oversees coordination, implementation and evaluation of the Economic Development Authority’s social media channels and website. She is responsible for creating original content, branding and web redesign as well as developing a bi-weekly bulletin for city businesses.

Tara Borwey
Program Manager
Economic Development Office
Tara.Borwey@fairfaxva.gov

Tara joined the EDO to advance the effort of connecting local residents with local businesses in an enriching and meaningful way through well-planned events. She is also responsible for launching Fairfax City’s first city-wide gift card program.

Michelle Smith
Tourism Manager
Economic Development Office & Authority
Michelle.Smith@fairfaxva.gov

Michelle develops and implements programs funded through ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act of 2021). Her goal is to increase visitors to the area through adding new local art and visitor attractions and highlighting the area’s historic resources.

Ashleigh Scarborough
Economic Development Associate
Economic Development Authority
Ashleigh.Scarborough@fairfaxva.gov

Ashleigh supports the Economic Development Authority, mostly focused on coordinating with the commissioners, communicating with council members, and playing a pivotal role in the relocation process of the MEC. She assists with administrative tasks as they arise.

Tatjana Mara
Account Support Specialist
Economic Development Authority
Tatjana.Mara@fairfaxva.gov

Tatjana is responsible for financial controls and reporting for the EDO Office, as well as oversees all budgeting and financial planning for EDA programs. She also oversees and prepares reports or statements as requested by the Treasurer, Commissioners, or Economic Development staff.

Andrew Wilson
Project Manager
Economic Development Authority
Andrew.Wilson@fairfaxcityeda.org

Andrew oversees the Mason Enterprise Center relocation efforts as well as the construction of Draper’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant. He will also be leading the outdoor dining permitting program.