Arminé Chaparyan appointed director of Community Development

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Jan. 22, 2025) – City Manager David White announced that Arminé Chaparyan has been appointed as director of the Community Development Department. 

Chaparyan takes the helm from Planning Manager Jing Yeo, who has served as interim director since Dec. 31, following longtime Director David Martin’s retirement announcement in September. 

“I want to express my gratitude to Jing for stepping up to lead the department in the interim role, particularly amid the local and regional impacts from the Palisades Fire emergency,” White said. “Arminé has a wealth of experience and I know she will bring tremendous knowledge and insight to the role to benefit our residents, businesses and visitors.” 

Chaparyan has more than two decades of experience in local government, most recently serving as city manager for the city of South Pasadena. She previously served as assistant city manager/community development director for the city of San Gabriel and as redevelopment and community preservation manager/city clerk for the city of Santa Clarita. 

“Having grown up in Southern California and gone to school in the area, Santa Monica was always a dream city. I am honored to be selected for this position and look forward to bringing my skills and energy to be a part of such a dynamic team,” Chaparyan said. “The department has an excellent reputation and I look forward to working closely with staff, the executive team, management and City Council to continue all the great work we’ve got laid out for us.” 

She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California Los Angeles and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California. 

Chaparyan will join the city effective Feb. 3, with an annual salary of $273,384.