Melissa Haley has been a local government professional for nearly 20 years. She joined the City of Irvine in 2005, serving in the Public Information Office, and has held several roles within the PIO since joining the organization 17 years ago. In her current role as Deputy City Manager, Haley oversees City Council Services, Public Information, Multicultural Affairs, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, in addition to several special projects and events.

Haley is a highly-motivated seasoned public affairs and communications professional with extensive experience in media coordination, marketing, branding, event planning, website and app implementation, digital and social media, constituent support, community relations, crisis communication, and emergency management. Haley was instrumental in supporting the City’s EOC during the 2020 Silverado Fire and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Melissa has proven the ability to establish and maintain thoughtful relationships with Council and staff members, manage stakeholder communications and expectations, and motivate and mentor team members.

Melissa takes pride in and embraces serving as a public steward. She has a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a minor in public administration from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and served as a Division-I student-athlete during her time as a Mustang. She lives in Orange County and enjoys being active outdoors with her two boys, Kevin (7) and Frazier (5), and their dog Sierra.