Ethics Commission names Leanne Pelham executive director, effective Jan. 4
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Summary
The San Francisco Ethics Commission on Nov. 23 appointed Leanne Pelham as executive director, effective Jan. 4, 2016, after vetting 32 applicants; the appointment passed unanimously and Pelham outlined priorities including organizational capacity, enforcement fairness and a comprehensive review of city ethics rules.
The San Francisco Ethics Commission unanimously appointed Leanne Pelham as its new executive director on Nov. 23. Pelham is scheduled to assume the post on Jan. 4, 2016.
Chair Rennie told the commission that recruiters submitted 32 applicants; commissioners Andrews and Rennie narrowed that list to five interviewees, then recommended three finalists to the full commission. The chair said Pelham’s record leading the Los Angeles Ethics Commission and, more recently, serving as director of ethics and corporate governance for the Santa Clara Valley Water District made her the choice. "We believe that makes her the right choice for this commission at this time," the chair said.
Pelham thanked the commission and outlined three priorities she and commissioners had discussed: supporting organizational capacity, aligning resources to deliver on the voters’ mandate, and strengthening the agency’s ability to enforce laws impartially and transparently. "There are opportunities to build on past successes and to look at how we can strengthen our organization going forward," Pelham said.
Until Pelham takes office, Acting Executive Director Jesse Menardy will remain in the role. The appointment was moved and seconded and carried in a unanimous vote.
The commission invited Pelham to speak briefly after the vote; she said she looked forward to working with staff, commissioners and the community as the agency begins a new chapter.
