Politics & Government
City Taps VP of Downtown Santa Monica as New Chief Communications Officer
Debbie Lee will manage a yearly budget of approximately $2.2 million and oversee Public Information, Community Relations and CityTV.
From a city of Santa Monica press release:
City Manager Rod Gould announced that Debbie Lee, vice president of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc., has been tapped to lead the city of Santa Monica’s Public Information and Communications Team.
Lee will take on the duties of Deputy City Manager Kate Vernez, who is retiring this summer.
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“Debbie Lee has over 15 years of experience working with partner organizations in Santa Monica. She is known for her communication, facilitation and interpersonal skills,” said Rod Gould. “She will add value on day one, and like Kate Vernez, she works well with all in our community.”
“Santa Monica is a dynamic and beloved city, and its people that make this place great,” said Lee. “I’ve been fortunate to spend the majority of my career in Santa Monica and I look forward to keeping the community engaged and informed on the efforts of the City of Santa Monica.”
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Lee has served as vice president of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. for the past seven years overseeing marketing, special programs, and community involvement. Her responsibilities included website management, social media, public relations, community relations, and government relations.
She worked frequently with community organizations, the Santa Monica business community, elected officials and the press. During her time with the Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau, Lee served as Vice President of Business Development, responsible for brand awareness, development of marketing materials, media relations, community relations and website management.
In the newly created position of Communications and Public Affairs Officer, Lee will receive a salary of $155,784. She will manage a yearly budget of approximately $2.2 million and oversee Public Information, Community Relations and CityTV. Lee will start in the position on July 7, 2014.
The City had previously released a hiring announcement for the position of Communications and Public Affairs Officer, which was rescinded.
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