With over 30 years of professional local government management experience, Melissa has served as City Manager in City of Redwood City since 2015. She is passionate about public service and building organizations and communities where every person can thrive. As City Manager, she directs the work of City staff to provide effective public services and ensure fulfillment of the City Council's policy priorities.

Prior to joining Redwood City, Melissa was the Assistant City Manager for the Cities of Mountain View and Fremont. She has substantial background in budgeting and financial management, and led strategic initiatives, continuous improvement efforts, and human resources and organizational development. Additional experience includes managing the functions of housing and redevelopment, information technology, and city communications, as well as coordinating the development of City-owned property. She also worked for the City of Morgan Hill in a variety of capacities including Assistant to the City Manager and Acting Human Resources Manager.

Melissa received her Bachelor's Degree in History from Mills College, and her Master's in Public Administration from San Jose State University. She is a Credentialed Manager through the International City/County Management Association and serves on the board for the Center for Public Safety Excellence. She is on the leadership team for NextGen Silicon Valley and is an active coach and champion for public sector talent development.

She and her husband have two adult daughters and you may see one of her amazing dogs on Zoom calls.