Public Affairs Manager

Working at the intersection of strategy and execution, the Public Affairs Manager collaborates with property owners, brokers, businesses, the City of Santa Monica, and community stakeholders to deliver a cohesive, vibrant, and resilient economic environment.

This position is responsible for advancing the economic vitality and long-term competitiveness of Downtown Santa Monica and the Third Street Promenade. This role leads efforts that support a dynamic mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and experiential uses, reinforcing Downtown as a premier coastal destination for both locals and visitors from around the world.

Economic Strategy & Implementation

• Serve as the key point of contact for existing and potential businesses and spearhead retention efforts
• Draft materials and communications to retailers, leasing agents, and external partners
• Oversee economic development efforts with strategic communications, outreach, and regular meetings

Public Affairs

• Engages with Federal, State, and Local government
• Tracks agendas and policies that impact the district
• Represents DTSM at council meetings and community meetings
• Draft letters of support and opposition on various issues as directed by the Board

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as a primary liaison to businesses, property owners, brokers, and prospective tenants
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the real estate, retail, and business communities
• Collaborate with the City of Santa Monica on permitting, policy, and economic initiatives
• Support business outreach efforts, including regular check-ins and issue resolution
• Serve as a dedicated point of contact for new and incoming businesses, providing high-touch, white-glove support from lease execution through opening
• Act as an ombudsman to help businesses navigate City processes, including permitting, licensing, inspections, and approvals
• Partner closely with City staff across departments to proactively identify and resolve issues, remove bottlenecks, and streamline timelines
• Track each project from lease signing to opening, ensuring accountability, clear communication, and momentum at every stage
• Assist with the permitting process for any dedicated DTSM or retailer-sponsored events within the district

Program Development & Activation Support

• Collaborate with marketing and events teams to align economic development efforts with district branding and placemaking initiatives
• Support pop-ups, short-term activations, and pilot concepts that test new uses and energize vacant storefronts

Position Expectations

• Strategic Thinking: Keeping the big picture and district objectives in mind, while also providing support to overall district operations.
• Demonstrate emotional intelligence and self-awareness, inspire confidence and trust, and welcome feedback. 
• Showcase initiative to identify and solve problems with drive, flexibility, resourcefulness, and creativity. 
• Work well under pressure and adapt easily to changing situations and priorities, while exercising good judgment and staying focused on overarching goals. 
• Interact in an effective, tactful, and professional manner internally, externally, and with stakeholders and the public at large, and respond graciously and promptly to the needs and requests of others. 
• Ability to analyze data and use critical thinking skills for logical reasoning.
• Dedicated to achieving organizational success and willing to pitch in and go the extra mile when needed. 
• Must be able to engage in a range of physical activity, including standing or sitting at a desk or computer and walking (sometimes on uneven surfaces) for an extended period of time. 

Position Requirements and Preferences 

• Undergraduate degree or relevant work experience required
• Excellent written and verbal communication and problem-solving skills required
• Proven ability to work with a team in a fast and innovative environment 
• 5 years of Public Affairs/ communications management experience, preferably in a commercial, civic environment
• Valid California driver's license