Joseph Irvin

City Manager, City of Malibu

Throughout his career, Irvin has built a strong record of leadership in emergency management, wildfire response and evacuation operations, environmental stewardship, community development, strategic planning, and organizational effectiveness. His professional background includes service with four cities—Sequim, Washington; Marco Island, Florida; Healdsburg, California; and South Lake Tahoe, California—each presenting distinct operational, environmental, and community challenges, prior to joining the City of Malibu.

Irvin’s leadership reflects a genuine people-first approach, a steady hand during emergencies, and a thoughtful, strategic perspective on long-term community priorities, while leading with transparency, collaboration, and compassion.

Irvin is widely recognized for building positive organizational cultures, strengthening internal operations, and fostering effective partnerships with regional, state, and federal agencies. His accomplishments include leadership during large-scale wildfire emergencies, advancement of housing and infrastructure initiatives, environmental restoration and planning efforts, modernization of emergency communications systems, and the implementation of process improvements that enhance service delivery and public trust.

Irvin is a Credentialed City Manager (ICMA-CM) through the International City/County Management Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Resource Management from California State University Channel Islands and a Master of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College.

Beyond his professional achievements, Irvin is deeply proud of raising his daughter, Michaela, with his wife of more than 20 years, Kate. He has also had the honor of representing his colleagues and the communities he has served through participation on various local, state, and national boards, further reflecting his commitment to public service and professional leadership.