Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Thomas
Hi Andrew, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I met my wife in San Francisco while managing operations for a growing e-commerce company’s private facilities. We decided to settle in Los Angeles, where she was attending USC for her MBA. After about a year of remote work, I transitioned from managing private facilities in the Bay Area, and other locations to overseeing public space operations in Downtown Santa Monica for a nonprofit place management organization called the Bayside District Corporation. This organization eventually evolved into Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.).
I served as the Director of Operations at DTSM, Inc., for 10 years before becoming the Executive Director of a similar nonprofit organization, the Westwood Village Improvement Association (WVIA). The WVIA is tasked with managing the public space in Westwood Village, at the foot of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
After leading the WVIA for 11 years, I returned to DTSM, Inc. as CEO. I now lead an organization that has set a standard for place management organizations. Downtown Santa Monica is an incredible place, and the innovative programs we have implemented continue to set the bar in our industry and provide immense value to our stakeholders. It is a pleasure to lead this community, and I’m very excited about our future.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Working in the public realm presents numerous challenges, but these challenges also make the work incredibly compelling. Organizations like ours are governed by nonprofit boards that represent a diverse range of stakeholders, including commercial property owners, businesses, residents, and community groups. Collaborating with such diverse boards necessitates finding balance and compromise and guiding everyone to prioritize the community’s well-being over individual interests. Additionally, we must engage with our local city governments, encouraging them to be flexible, embrace innovation, and act swiftly—traits not typically associated with municipalities. However, when strong partnerships are cultivated and maintained, remarkable achievements are possible.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As the CEO of DTSM, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, I am dedicated to fostering economic stability, growth, and vibrant community life in Downtown Santa Monica. Leading a passionate team of nine place-making professionals, I oversee all aspects of our organization to ensure that our community thrives as the best possible place to live, work, and play.
What Makes the Work Stand Out:
DTSM, Inc. stands out due to our exceptional ability to respond swiftly to changing circumstances. Our deep understanding of Downtown Santa Monica allows us to implement effective programs and services rapidly or advocate on behalf of our business community to our City partners. For instance, we increased funding for our homeless outreach teams to better connect vulnerable individuals with vital services, and we collaborated with City staff to expedite zoning amendments, facilitating quicker openings for new entrepreneurs. I believe our responsiveness and capability are unmatched.
What I am Most Proud Of:
I take immense pride in the events and activations we host. We are celebrating 15 years of Ice at Santa Monica, a seasonal ice rink that has delighted millions. This year, we are introducing Roll at Santa Monica, a roller rink poised for similar success. Our calendar is brimming with live music, outdoor movies, silent discos, sustainability fairs, health-conscious events, and art festivals. There’s always something happening in Downtown Santa Monica.
Describe the Value of Our Brand:
Our brand is globally recognized. Show a picture of the Santa Monica Pier sign to people worldwide, and most will immediately identify it. We epitomize the beach lifestyle, great weather, exceptional hospitality, delectable restaurants, and a walkable, welcoming environment. Stewarding this iconic brand is a profound responsibility, one that I approach with utmost seriousness while having a lot of fun!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up in great cities, I’ve always believed that geography is the most significant factor in shaping who you are and what you become. The best part is that you can choose your geography, giving you incredible control over the people you meet, the opportunities available to you, and the experiences you gain.
I’ve had the privilege of living in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New Orleans, San Juan, and Panama City (Panama). Each of these vibrant locations has profoundly shaped my life, and I feel fortunate for the diverse experiences I’ve had. They have inspired me and guided me toward my career.
Apart from my professional life, I am a musician. Music has been my lifelong companion, a passion I discovered at a very young age. I experimented with several instruments before settling on the bass guitar at 14. Music is my oldest and dearest friend, always there for me, no matter what is happening in my life. I enjoy performing with others and practicing at home. Music is a lifelong journey, and I am happy to say that I will play bass for the rest of my life.
