Shana Epstein to Lead Santa Monica Chamber
The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce has appointed Shana Epstein as its new chief executive officer.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People
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The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce will welcome Shana Epstein as its new chief executive officer starting October 12, 2026. The organization chose Epstein to lead the Chamber following a competitive recruitment process.
Why it matters
The board selected Epstein for her extensive background in public works and her demonstrated commitment to community service. Her leadership style is expected to bring new energy to the local business advocacy group.
Epstein brings 30 years of experience in public works and economic development, having managed a $160 million operating budget and a team of 220 professionals in Beverly Hills.
The players
Shana Epstein
She is an experienced public administrator who holds a Master of Public Administration from George Washington University.
Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce
This local business organization supports the economic development and advocacy of enterprises in the Santa Monica area.
The details
Epstein most recently spent nine years as the public works director for Beverly Hills and served as the inaugural general manager for Ventura Water. During her tenure in Ventura, she secured $20 million in federal grants and helped oversee $515 million in capital improvement funds.
Timeline
Shana Epstein begins her role as Chamber CEO on October 12, 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment follows a broader trend of chambers recruiting public sector administrators to help navigate complex municipal-business relationships. It positions the Chamber to leverage her experience in capital planning as it competes for regional economic investment.
Local business owners and Chamber members should prepare for a potential shift in the organization's focus toward infrastructure-heavy economic development projects. This change may impact how members interact with local city planning and grant-funded initiatives.
The takeaway
Epstein brings deep experience in managing multi-million dollar public projects to her new role in the private sector. Her appointment signals that the Chamber is prioritizing fiscal management and federal grant procurement for future growth.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts on the People page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Monica Daily Press.
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