The Arts Council of Long Beach has a new executive director — on an interim basis.

Lisa DeSmidt, who has worked with the nonprofit for a decade, most recently as its director of programs, took over the role on Monday, Feb. 2. She takes the helm from Griselda Suarez, who announced her departure from the Arts Council last week.

DeSmidt is both a local artist and business owner, according to the Arts Council’s Monday announcement. She has helped shape the Arts Council’s programs, people and approach to serving the city’s arts communities for years. She also curates the Arts Council’s annual Professional Artist Fellows Exhibition.

“Lisa has been a central part of ArtsLB for many years, and the Board’s confidence in her leadership is unanimous,” said Anne Lattime, president of the Arts Council’s Board of Directors. “She knows this organization, she knows this community, and she has helped shape the programs and partnerships that artists and cultural organizations rely on. We are proud to support her as she steps into this role.”

Besides her background in the arts, DeSmidt brings experience in marketing, event production, community outreach and more to the position, Arts Council said. She has previously organized large-scale events for Ted Conferences, Blizzard Entertainment, Visit Long Beach and more.

She previously worked as an assistant curator at the Torrance Art Museum, the announcement said, and her own work continues to tour both nationally and internationally. DeSmidt has a bachelor’s degree from Cal State Long Beach and additional education from USC, the Arts Council said.

“ArtsLB has been my professional home for the past decade, and I’ve been deeply involved in building the programs and partnerships that support our creative community,” DeSmidt said. “I’m grateful to Griselda for her leadership and mentorship, and I’m honored to step into this role. I’m ready to continue strengthening an organization that plays a vital role in Long Beach’s creative economy and cultural life.”

The nonprofit’s programming and operations will continue as normal, the Arts Council’s announcement said.