Economic Development Assistant Director

About Us

The City of Glendale's Economic Development Department is a forward-thinking, high-performing team committed to shaping one of the nation’s most dynamic and rapidly advancing urban economies. Anchored by world-class sports and entertainment assets, a growing innovation corridor, and a thriving advanced-manufacturing ecosystem, Glendale is positioned at the center of economic transformation in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The Office of Economic Development drives strategic initiatives that attract premier employers, accelerate investment, and strengthen Glendale’s long-term competitiveness.

We champion a business-forward environment supported by strong civic leadership, a culture of collaboration, and a proven track record of delivering major projects including SEAR 1 national and international sporting and entertainment events, large-scale commercial developments, and complex multi-stakeholder initiatives. With a commitment to data-driven strategy, proactive engagement, and operational excellence, our team works to expand Glendale’s economic base, enhance quality of life, and cultivate vibrant districts that serve residents, businesses, and visitors.

We operate with high expectations, strong cross-departmental coordination, and a deep focus on long-range planning and disciplined execution. Joining the Glendale Office of Economic Development means becoming part of a mission-aligned, collaborative team shaping the future of one of Arizona’s most opportunity-rich cities. We are innovators, conveners, and strategic stewards of Glendale’s economic prosperity—and we are seeking leaders who thrive in a team-oriented environment and are eager to help build the place where the market wants to invest.

The Assistant Director of Economic Development provides strategic operational leadership to advance the City’s business attraction, retention, expansion, and redevelopment efforts. Working in close collaboration with the Economic Development Director, this role directs internal business operations, oversees departmental systems and performance management, and leads key service lines that strengthen Glendale’s economic competitiveness. Manages strategic and operational plans, departmental policies, and budgets, and supervises professional staff responsible for business development, business assistance initiatives, data strategy, and marketing.

This position leads complex economic development projects and negotiates disposition, development, and inducement agreements. The Assistant Economic Development Director serves as the second-in-command of the Department, provides executive operational leadership, and supports the Director in advancing citywide economic development initiatives. Collaborates across the Department’s various service areas to support alignment of strategic priorities and initiatives that contribute to Glendale’s overall economic vitality, competitiveness, and destination appeal.

The City of Glendale offers a generous benefits package with competitive rates that become effective the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment. You can review the FY25 Benefits Guide or visit the City of Glendale’s Benefits page for more information.

• The City of Glendale observes 10.5 holidays per year, and full-time employees are also granted an additional 12 hours of holiday special leave per calendar year to celebrate their cultural or religious holidays.
• Vacation leave accrues at 5.33 hours per pay period (138 hours/17.25
  * days per year), and increases to 6.12 hours after 5 years, and to 7.6 hours after 10 years of service.
• Sick leave accrues at 4.4 hours per pay period (114 hours/14.25 days
  * per year).
• Da…