The City of Malibu is pleased to announce the appointment of Jesse Mays as Assistant City Manager, who brings extensive experience in municipal government, strategic planning, communications, infrastructure, and community engagement.
“Jesse brings an impressive combination of public-sector leadership, innovative thinking, and a deep understanding of city operations and community engagement,” said City Manager Joe Irvin. “His experience working collaboratively with elected officials, residents, businesses, and regional partners will be a tremendous asset to Malibu as we continue rebuilding, investing in our infrastructure, and planning for the city’s future.”
He will work alongside Malibu’s City Manager and existing Assistant City Manager Christopher Smith to address key community priorities on community resiliency, customer service, government relations, and the future of the community lands.
He joins Malibu following a distinguished career in local government, most recently serving as Assistant City Manager for Culver City, where he led many externally facing city operations and served as a strategic advisor to the City Manager.
During his tenure in Culver City, Mays managed the city’s public-private partnership to connect every home and business to fiber internet, a project completed in two years at no cost to the city. He oversaw the development of major community infrastructure, including affordable housing, a new community center, and long-term supportive housing.
Mays also guided Culver City’s entry into the regional Clean Power Alliance, making 100% renewable energy the default choice for residents. He helped establish Culver City as a leader in transparency by expanding digital communications and developing innovative approaches to public engagement. Mays also worked with the City Council to develop and implement policies addressing rental housing and homelessness.
“I am honored to join the City of Malibu and excited to serve a community with a strong sense of place,” said Mays. “Malibu has an incredible opportunity to build on its strengths while addressing important challenges, and I look forward to working with City staff, residents, businesses, and community partners to help move that work forward.”
Mays began his career in public service as a staff member for San Diego City Councilmember Sherri Lightner, who represented La Jolla and other coastal neighborhoods. He worked with those communities on development and transportation projects and ultimately served as Lightner’s Chief of Staff.
Mays holds an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and a bachelor’s degree from Pomona College. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and three children and coaches Little League baseball in his free time.
Jesse Mays can be reached at (310) 456-2489, ext. 358 or JMays@malibucity.org.