News release
Valencia Town Center has announced the appointment of Michael de Leon as its new general manager and Yanique Johnson as its new marketing manager.
The two leaders will guide the center’s operations, marketing, community engagement and retailer support, the mall announced in a news release.
“Michael and Yanique each bring exceptional talent and deep industry experience to Valencia Town Center,” Jonathan Maher, senior vice president of Asset Management and Investments for Centennial, owner and operator of the shopping center, said in the release. “Their leadership will help sharpen our focus on delivering an outstanding guest experience, strengthening retailer performance, and further deepening our connection with the Santa Clarita community. We are confident that their combined expertise will support Valencia Town Center’s continued success as a vibrant and highly regarded destination in the region.”
In his new role, de Leon will oversee the center’s day-to-day operations, leasing strategies, marketing initiatives, community engagement and tenant relations, the release said.
De Leon’s career spans more than two decades and includes leadership roles across several high-profile Southern California retail and mixed-use properties, including Citadel Outlets, Burbank Town Center, Paseo Colorado in Pasadena, and several Westfield centers, according to the release.
“I am honored to join Valencia Town Center and to lead a property with such a meaningful presence in the Santa Clarita community,” de Leon said in the release. “I look forward to partnering with our retailers, local organizations and the entire on-site team to enhance the guest experience and ensure the center remains a welcoming and engaging destination for everyone. Valencia Town Center is a dynamic center with tremendous potential, and I am excited to help guide its continued evolution as a valued part of the community.”
In her new role, Johnson will oversee all aspects of marketing and branding for the center, including strategic planning, advertising, digital and social media strategy, content development, community partnerships and on-site programming. She will work closely with the general manager, leasing team and retailers to elevate the center’s brand presence, strengthen community engagement and drive traffic, sales and overall asset performance, the release said.
Johnson joins Valencia Town Center with more than 15 years of experience developing integrated marketing campaigns. She has overseen social media strategy for Covered California, driven year-over-year growth for Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year program, and supported brand development for Disney Live Action and Disneynature releases, in addition to serving in marketing roles at BMC/Builders FirstSource and Barnes & Noble, according to the release.
“I am excited to join the Valencia Town Center team and to help strengthen the connection between the center, its retailers and the broader Santa Clarita community,” Johnson said in the release. “Marketing plays a powerful role in shaping how people experience a destination, and I look forward to building engaging campaigns and programs that highlight everything the center has to offer while supporting our retailers and delivering measurable value for our guests.”
