Downtown Santa Monica Inc. Director of Operations Resigns

Downtown Santa Monica Inc. has lost a key member of its team: On Wednesday, the organization announced that longtime Director of Operations Andrew Thomas had resigned from the position. The 10-year veteran of the organization is moving on to a new position: executive director of the Westwood Village Improvement Association.

Thomas' resignation is effective July 29. A successor has yet to be named.

Thomas conceived the Ambassador Program, which helps tourists and other visitors find their way around downtown. He also hatched the Enhanced Maintenance Program, which tries to keep downtown's alleyways, parking structures and sidewalks clean.

The director of operations also oversees an annual budget of roughly $2.5 million.

“Andrew’s work will leave a lasting impression on downtown Santa Monica. He has built strong relationships here, which is a key element of his success,” Downtown Santa Monica Inc. CEO Kathleen Rawson said in a statement. “Andrew put the right people in the right positions and followed through on the delivery of services. I am delighted he has the opportunity to run his own program. Westwood is fortunate to have him.”

“Andrew has served as an important link to city operations in Downtown Santa Monica and has been instrumental in implementing the enhanced maintenance program," added Assistant City Manager Elaine Polachek. "The Westwood Business Improvement District will be very well-served by Andrew."

The Bayside District Corporation originated in 1984, with the goal of managing services and operations in downtown Santa Monica. Two weeks ago, the nonprofit hosted a event that served to the Bayside District Corporation with its new name, Downtown Santa Monica Inc.

"The new name more clearly defines the geographic area," Rawson said at the event. "[We've] changed our perceived image of a shopping mall [area] toward more of an urban community defining downtown."