South Coast Plaza, the shopping and dining destination in Costa Mesa, Calif., has named Tenley Zinke as its new executive director of marketing. She succeeds Debra Gunn Downing, who will retire midyear following a 27-year career with the company.
Downing led South Coast Plaza’s marketing strategy and built partnerships across retail, the arts and philanthropic organizations. During her tenure, the center surpassed $2.5 billion in annual sales, according to the company.
Zinke joins South Coast Plaza with experience in marketing and communications across global luxury fashion and retail, having held senior roles at Kering, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Net-a-porter and Ralph Lauren, where she focused on brand stewardship, media strategy and cultural partnerships. She recently relocated from New York City to Orange County to join the team.
Approaching its 60th anniversary in 2027, South Coast Plaza features more than 230 stores and 30 dining establishments, including Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Loewe, Harry Winston, Celine, Maison Margiela, Gucci, Cartier and Rolex.
“Between South Coast Plaza’s position as one of the world’s premier shopping destinations and the stellar reputation of the Segerstrom family, there was no question this role presented an irresistible opportunity to forge the next chapter of my career,” said Zinke in a statement. “Building on Debra Gunn Downing’s legacy, I look forward to carrying forward the deep-rooted relationships with the retailers, restaurants and community organizations for which South Coast Plaza is known.”
“South Coast Plaza has been far more than a career,” said Downing. “It has been a profound privilege spanning nearly three decades. It’s been an honor to be a part of the extraordinary legacy and vision of Henry Segerstrom and the Segerstrom family while continuing to evolve South Coast Plaza into a destination that sets the standard for luxury retail. As I close this chapter, I know that the future of South Coast Plaza is in capable hands.”
