Downtown OKC Partnership (DOKC) is pleased to announce that Jennifer Nakayama will lead the organization as President and CEO beginning February 2023. Nakayama will join DOKC from Waikiki Business Improvement District (WBID), where she has served as President and Executive Director for nearly six years.

At the Waikiki BID, Nakayama’s work focused on safety and operations while continuing to enhance the quality of life in Waikiki. Her key emphasis includes advocacy for businesses and community stakeholders, public activation and placemaking, as well as research and planning for district-wide benefit. Daily public services include custodial, maintenance, landscaping, security, safety, and homeless outreach.

Nakayama, originally from southern California was selected from over 50 candidates through a national executive search led by HRS, Inc., Downtown OKC Partnership Board Chair Tammy Powell and a search committee of downtown stakeholders.

“Bringing Jennifer on as our CEO marks an exciting new chapter in Downtown OKC and I believe our downtown will see more great things as we look ahead,” said Powell.

"I am honored to be selected as the next leader of the Downtown OKC Partnership, and am thrilled to join such an inspiring organization,” said Nakayama. “I am passionate about public spaces bringing communities together, in collaborative ways that truly focus on partnerships between residents, businesses, and government.  Downtown OKC will continue to build on Jane Jenkins' legacy, and alongside the incredible team that is in place, we will begin the next chapter with an eye towards enhancing an already amazing city for those that reside, work, visit and deeply care for Downtown OKC.”

Nakayama will assume her role on February 13, 2023. Jane Jenkins announced in December 2022 that she will remain part-time with the organization through April 2023.

For more information about Downtown OKC Partnership, visit DowntownOKC.com.

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