After just over a month in office, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee has revealed the key members of her administration, marking a significant step in shaping her leadership team.
Among her early appointments was Miya Saika Chen, who serves as chief of staff. Chen previously worked for former Councilmember Nikki Fortunato Bas.
Another notable hire is Justin Phillips, a former columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle, appointed as the communications director.
The full roster of Lee’s inner circle was disclosed through a recent newsletter on the city’s website, showcasing a mix of new talent and familiar faces.
Erica Astrella has been named the director of data and technology transformation. A skilled technologist, Astrella’s previous roles include head of technology at Parkwood Entertainment, founded by Beyoncé, and chief technology officer for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. She also held the position of director of engineering at GitHub.
Rev. Damita Davis-Howard will take on the role of public safety director. In addition to her experience as director of ministries and assistant pastor at First Mt. Sinai, Rev. Davis-Howard has previously directed Oakland’s Ceasefire anti-gun violence program and has worked with SEIU Local 1021.
LaNiece Jones has been appointed as the director of community engagement. Previously a deputy mayor under Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins, she has also been involved with the African American Sports and Entertainment Group, which sought to redevelop the Coliseum site.
Cesar Macias joins as a special assistant for community relations and state and federal affairs. His background includes senior district representative for State Senator Scott Wiener and serving as a congressional aide to Barbara Lee.
Additionally, Liz Valdez will serve as the executive assistant and scheduler for Mayor Lee, while Brittany Garza has been appointed as administrative and operations coordinator, having previously worked in the Thao administration and as an assistant to Councilmember Noel Gallo.
Mary Olsen has been brought on as the receptionist and has prior experience as a constituent liaison for the mayor’s office.
Lee’s staff also includes three members from the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities program, collaborating with local governments to enhance urban development. They are Director Visraant Iyer, Civic Designer Patricia Price, and Data Analyst Manager Lindsay Moore, all positioned in the Mayor’s Office of Innovation.
Phillips, the communications director, stated that this roster represents Lee’s key hires, but further members may join as the administration continues to develop.
Simultaneously, city administration steps are underway with City Administrator Jestin Johnson announcing new hires. Michelle Phillips is returning to Oakland as an assistant city administrator, effective August 30. Previously, she served as Oakland’s inspector general before working as the director of civil rights in Minneapolis.
Moreover, Jan Mazyck has been appointed interim director of the finance department, effective July 1, with a search for a permanent director to commence shortly.
The city also plans to initiate the search for a permanent director of the Human Services Department in the coming weeks.
This announcement highlights a dynamic and diverse team forming around Mayor Lee as she looks to tackle the challenges facing Oakland.
image source from：oaklandside
