South Coast Plaza announced the appointment of Tenley Zinke as Executive Director of Marketing, succeeding Debra Gunn Downing, who will retire midyear following a remarkable 27-year tenure with the company.
Zinke joins South Coast Plaza with an extensive background in marketing and communications across global luxury fashion and retail. She has held senior roles at Kering, LVMH, Tiffany & Co., Net-a-Porter and Ralph Lauren, with a focus on brand stewardship, media strategy and cultural partnerships. Born and raised in New York City, Zinke relocated to Orange County to join the company’s team.
“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. “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 the company is known.”
Gunn Downing’s retirement marks the close of a transformative chapter in South Coast Plaza’s history. Over the course of her nearly three-decade career, she played an instrumental role in shaping the center’s marketing vision, forging enduring partnerships across retail, the arts and philanthropic organizations and solidifying the company’s standing as a leading global luxury destination.
Anton Segerstrom, Partner, South Coast Plaza, expressed enthusiasm for the road ahead.
“We are excited to welcome Tenley Zinke, who brings a depth of luxury experience to the role. We look forward to the continued growth that Tenley will bring to South Coast Plaza,” said Segerstrom. “Debra’s 27-year tenure has elevated not only our marketing program but the reputation of the company itself. She is beloved by merchants, and we are grateful for the significant contributions she has made throughout her career.”
Under Gunn Downing’s marketing leadership, the center surpassed $2.5 billion in annual sales. The luxury shopping center will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2027.
“South Coast Plaza has been far more than a career. It has been a profound privilege spanning nearly three decades,” said Debra Gunn Downing, Executive Director of Marketing, South Coast Plaza. “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.”
