Irvine City Manager Sean Crumby has announced several executive appointments that will provide strategic leadership and help shape Irvine’s next chapter.
Steve Torelli has been appointed Director of the Great Park, Kavita Deepak has been named Director of the City’s new Information Technology Department, and Luis Estevez will serve as the Director of Public Works & Sustainability. Additionally, Karin Koch has joined the City as Economic Development Director.
Together, these leaders will drive key initiatives, oversee essential infrastructure, and advance major projects that support Irvine’s long-term vision.
“These appointments reflect our commitment to thoughtful planning and strategic leadership,” Crumby said. “Each of these individuals brings the experience and vision needed to guide our work and ensure Irvine remains an outstanding City, prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.”
With more than 20 years of dedicated service to the City, Steve Torelli draws upon experience in Public Safety, the City Manager’s Office, and the Great Park Development team as he steps into his new role as Director of the Great Park. In this capacity, he will oversee the strategic planning, development, and coordination of projects across the Great Park, the City’s most transformative and visible initiative.
Recognizing the essential role technology plays in every facet of the City, from ensuring operational excellence to driving innovation and security, Information Technology (IT) functions will transition into their own department led by Kavita Deepak. Deepak, who joined the City in 2019, has served as Chief Information Officer since 2023, driving modernization across departments and leading the City’s transition to a next-generation enterprise resource planning system that will streamline operations.
Since coming to Irvine in 2024, Luis Estevez has served in several key leadership roles, including Director of the Great Park and Acting Director of Public Works & Sustainability. His extensive experience, steady leadership, and dedication to the City’s mission will ensure continuity, stability, and progress as Irvine continues to innovate and maintain an excellent quality of life.
Karin Koch brings a wealth of public and private sector experience to her role as the City’s Director of Economic Development. She spearheaded technology commercialization and investment outreach as Managing Director for Children’s Hospital Orange County and helped build the region’s life sciences entrepreneurial ecosystem as Executive Director of University Lab Partners, a nonprofit life sciences accelerator. She has also worked in a senior role at the County of Orange, developing its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy and administering Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs.
Koch joined the City earlier this fall. Torelli, Deepak, and Estevez will assume their new roles November 22.