Darlene Sanchez

Darlene Sanchez was appointed as Ontario’s Assistant City Manager in September 2020. As the Chief Operating Officer, she oversees the Management Services Agency, which includes the City Manager’s Office, Communications Department, Innovation Performance & Audit Department, Broadband, Records Management Department, and other priority efforts that require organization-wide collaboration.

Driven by a commitment to establish Ontario as the Premier Community of the Inland Empire and enhance the organization as a top-tier workplace, Darlene has led numerous key initiatives. She has successfully managed high-impact interdepartmental projects and contracts throughout the City, employee engagement programs, and recognition events. Additionally, Darlene has spearheaded citywide strategic efforts to boost efficiency and innovation.  A strong advocate for fiscal responsibility, professional development, community engagement, and public safety, Darlene continues to shape Ontario’s future with vision and dedication.

Before serving the Ontario community, Darlene’s local government career includes over 24 years of experience with other notable local agencies, including Glendale, Monrovia, and Walnut, serving in leadership capacities within Community Development, City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, and Redevelopment.

Darlene is a native of the Inland Empire and grew up in Riverside, CA. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from California State University, Fullerton.

She lives in unincorporated La Verne with her husband, three children, and two Labradoodles.