Douglas Erber to lead global partnerships with Yokkaichi, Japan; Qingdao, China; Sochi, Russia; Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Mombasa, Kenya; Bacolod, Philippines; Taoyuan, Taiwan; and La Paz, Mexico; as well as youth diplomacy, and LA28 engagement.

October 15, 2025. LONG BEACH, CA – Sister Cities of Long Beach (SCLB) announced the appointment of Douglas Erber as the organization’s first Executive Director, effective October 20, 2025. The new role marks a milestone in SCLB’s transition from a volunteer-led organization to a rising civic nonprofit positioned to expand its impact on international friendship, youth leadership, and cultural exchange.

“Through Sister Cities of Long Beach, we’re strengthening our international ties and opening doors for cultural exchange, education, and economic opportunity, ” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “Doug’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter in advancing our city’s role on the global stage and creating meaningful experiences for our residents and young people.”

“Hiring our first Executive Director is a historic step for Sister Cities of Long Beach, and Doug Erber is the right leader for this moment,” said Richer San, Chair of the Board of SCLB. “Doug brings over 20 years of experience building cross-cultural partnerships, engaging civic and business leaders, and elevating international programs. With Doug at the helm, we’ll strengthen ties with our sister cities, expand opportunities for students, and enhance Long Beach’s global profile.”

Erber, a Long Beach resident, will oversee daily operations, development and sponsorships, program strategy, and external relations, working closely with the SCLB Board, City of Long Beach, the Port of Long Beach, Long Beach City College (LBCC), California State University Long Beach (CSULB), community partners, and each of the eight sister city committees.          

“We’re thrilled to welcome Doug,” added Susan Redfield, President of SCLB. “His track record in international exchange, cross cultural programming and community engagement will accelerate our work across all eight sister cities as we prepare to launch our ninth.”

Erber previously served as President & Executive Director leading strategy, fundraising and operations of the Japan America Society of Southern California- an international nonprofit founded over a century ago.

“I’m honored to join Sister Cities of Long Beach at this pivotal time,” said Doug Erber. “SCLB’s volunteers have built a remarkable legacy. I look forward to partnering with the Board, City leaders, schools, and our sister cities around the world to expand programs that inspire students, foster cultural understanding, and create lasting civic and economic connections.”

Erber is a veteran nonprofit and cultural diplomacy leader with extensive experience in international exchange, civic partnerships, and community programs. He has led and advised organizations that build bridges between the U.S. and global partners, with a focus on education, arts, and business engagement. In his volunteer roles, Erber served as President of the Huntington Beach Sister City Association and serves on the Board of the U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Association based in Tokyo.

About Sister Cities of Long Beach

Founded in 1963, Sister Cities of Long Beach (SCLB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that connects Long Beach with communities around the world through friendship, diplomacy, and people-to-people exchange. SCLB advances youth leadership, cultural programs, and international partnerships in collaboration with the City of Long Beach, the Port of Long Beach, LBCC, CSULB, community organizations, and global sister cities.