Brad Kemp

Brad Kemp is director of regional research at Beacon Economics. A well-known expert on California labor markets, Mr. Kemp was a labor research analyst for the California Employment Development Department (EDD) for over 7 years. During this time, he amassed singular expertise in the collection, reliability, and applicability of labor market statistics in the state. Focusing on the greater Los Angeles region, Mr. Kemp was instrumental in helping leaders, workforce/economic development officials, and city planners use statistics to make better-informed choices and develop effective labor market strategies. He was responsible for releasing the monthly employment estimates and unemployment rate for Los Angeles County, and worked on special reports that detailed the effects of major events, such as the Southern California wildfires, on regional labor markets. Mr. Kemp also played a key role in communicating EDD’s data and message to a variety of audiences, becoming both a widely quoted source in the media, and regularly presenting at conferences, business gatherings, and regional events.

Mr. Kemp is a veteran who served with distinction for six years in the U.S. Navy, where he focused on electronics, computers, and weapons systems. He graduated at the top of his class in each of the Naval schools he attended, and developed discipline, leadership, and attention to detail while serving his country.

Following his military service and prior to joining EDD, Mr. Kemp worked in the fruit import industry as an operations manager, and in entertainment production – accruing 13 movie credits to his name. He is involved in veteran affairs and works with organizations that assist veterans in transitioning into the civilian working world. He received his B.A. in Communication from the University of Delaware.