She Will Lead the Department’s Policy Direction, Oversee Labor Contract Negotiations, Employee Relations, Recruitment, and Other Key Functions
Dana Brown has been appointed as the new director of the Human Resources Department for the city of Santa Monica, City Manager David White announced on Tuesday following a nationwide search.
Brown will begin her new role on Oct. 6 with an annual salary of $253,680.
As director, Brown will lead the department’s policy direction, oversee labor contract negotiations, employee relations, recruitment, and other key functions. She will also serve as secretary for the Santa Monica Personnel Board.
Brown brings nearly four decades of public service experience to the role, beginning her human resources career at Los Angeles World Airports. She most recently served as general manager of the Personnel Department for the city of Los Angeles, where she managed over 600 full-time employees responsible for recruitment, hiring, and training, including for public safety personnel and the Department of Water and Power.
Brown has held several leadership positions within the city of Los Angeles, including chief employee relations officer, general manager of the Department of Animal Services, and human resources director at both the L.A. Zoo and the Los Angeles Fire Department.
City Manager White praised Brown’s extensive experience, stating, “Dana’s leadership will strengthen the work of the Human Resources Department and ensure Santa Monica is well-positioned to build a strong and resilient workforce.”
