Debbie Lee will take the helm of Downtown Santa Monica.
Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. has selected Debbie Lee to serve as its next chief executive officer, naming the former city communications executive to lead the organization beginning Jan. 26, 2026.
Lee will assume the role with a base salary of $318,000, the organization announced. She joins DTSM from Actum LLC, where she most recently worked as senior managing director, advising public, private and nonprofit clients on public affairs, strategic communications, crisis management and community engagement.
At Actum, Lee focused on helping organizations navigate complex civic and political environments, align stakeholders and advance long-term strategies rooted in public trust, according to the announcement.
Her background includes extensive experience in local government and downtown leadership. Lee previously served as chief communications officer for the City of Santa Monica, where she directed citywide communications, public engagement efforts and emergency response messaging. Earlier in her career, she also held senior leadership roles at Downtown Santa Monica, Inc., providing her with direct familiarity with the district’s operations and economic and community challenges.
As CEO, Lee will oversee DTSM’s efforts to promote a clean, safe and economically vibrant downtown. Her responsibilities will include supervision of placemaking initiatives, economic development programs, ambassador services, marketing and coordination among stakeholders.
