By Lookout Staff

April 15, 2026 -- Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier announced it has hired its first Director of Government and Community Affairs as the City embarks on an ambitious plan to revive the local economy.

Tim Defuria, a Santa Monica resident and veteran of government affairs who most recently led legislative strategies for Amazon, was appointed earlier this month to fill the newly created post.

In his role, Defuria "will lead Pacific Park’s government affairs efforts while advancing community partnerships and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders," park officials said.

“Tim’s deep experience navigating complex policy environments and building trusted relationships across sectors makes him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said Pacific Park CEO Jeff Klocke.

“As Pacific Park continues to grow and evolve, his expertise will be instrumental in advancing our strategic priorities and reinforcing Pacific Park’s role as a valued community partner,” Klocke said.

Defuria's appointment comes as the City embarks on a "Realignment Plan" that "advances efforts to realign and reinvigorate tourism and economic activity," Pacific Park officials said.

"Defuria will support Pacific Park’s engagement in these initiatives by strengthening collaboration with public-sector partners and fellow Pier stakeholders," officials said.

"His work will focus on ensuring Pacific Park remains aligned with the city’s long-term vision. He will also work closely with neighboring businesses and partners to support shared priorities and enhance the overall visitor and community experience."

Prior to joining Pacific Park, Defuria served as Manager of Last Mile Public Policy at Amazon, where he "developed and led multi-state and multi-city legislative strategies and worked closely with policymakers and regulatory agencies to support business growth and operational certainty."

Defuria has also served as Vice President of Government Relations at Strategies 360, a research, public affairs and communications firm, and as Director of Government Partnerships for Bird, where he "successfully secured operating permits in multiple jurisdictions" and "led regional government engagement efforts."

Earlier in his career, Defuria managed community engagement initiatives and legislative outreach in the Office of former Assemblymember Richard Bloom, who currently serves on the Board of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM).

“I’m honored to join Pacific Park at such a dynamic time and to be part of an organization that plays such an important role in the Santa Monica community,” Defuria said in a statement.

“Pacific Park is not only an iconic destination, but also a meaningful community partner and a central part of the Santa Monica Pier experience.

"I look forward to strengthening relationships with local stakeholders and working collaboratively to support the Pier and the broader economic vitality of the City of Santa Monica,” Defuria said.