Senior Director of Economic Development & Tourism - Scottsdale, Arizona

Overview

The City of Scottsdale, AZ (pop. 246,170) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Senior Director of Economic Development & Tourism. Scottsdale is internationally known as a premier resort community with a thriving economy and exceptional quality of life, offering a platform to shape both economic development and tourism strategies.

The Senior Director provides executive leadership to two complementary departments: the Economic Development Department, which focuses on business attraction, retention, and expansion and marketing Scottsdale as a hub for innovation and corporate investment; and the Tourism & Events Department, which oversees high-profile events, cultural programming, and collaboration with Experience Scottsdale and Scottsdale Arts, ensuring Scottsdale remains a premier visitor destination. Together, these functions are central to the city’s long-term prosperity and brand.

• Provide executive leadership to the Economic Development and Tourism & Events departments.
• Establish and implement strategies for business attraction, retention, and expansion; market Scottsdale as a hub for innovation and corporate investment.
• Oversee high-profile events, cultural programming, and collaboration with Experience Scottsdale and Scottsdale Arts to maintain Scottsdale as a premier visitor destination.
• Integrate tourism assets into broader economic development strategies and guide the development of a new Economic Development Strategic Plan.
• Engage with stakeholders, anticipate market trends, and manage relationships with diverse partners to support Scottsdale's luxury brand and lifestyle.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, public administration, community planning, or a related field.
• Minimum of eight years of progressively responsible leadership and managerial experience in an economic development or tourism organization.

Salary range is $ to $, dependent upon qualifications. The City of Scottsdale provides a comprehensive benefits program.

Apply online at  with résumé, cover letter, and five professional references. Final date to receive applications is October 15, 2025. For more information, contact Mary Jacobs, MGT Director – Human Capital Solutions, .

The City of Scottsdale is an Equal Opportunity Employer.