Senior Director of Economic Development & Tourism

Job Description:

Senior Director of Economic Development & Tourism

Description

Introduction

The City of Scottsdale, AZ (pop. 243,050) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Senior Director of Economic Development & Tourism. Known internationally as a premier resort community with a thriving economy and exceptional quality of life, Scottsdale offers a unique platform for a dynamic professional to shape both economic development and tourism strategies.

The Senior Director provides executive leadership to two complementary divisions. The Economic Development Division focuses on business attraction, retention, and expansion, as well as marketing Scottsdale as a hub for innovation and corporate investment. The Tourism & Events Division 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.

The successful candidate will be a seasoned economic development practitioner who brings strong management, communication, and relationship-building skills. The position requires the ability to anticipate market trends, integrate tourism assets into broader economic strategies, and attract industries that align with Scottsdale’s luxury brand and lifestyle, while guiding the development of a new Economic Development Strategic Plan.

Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, public administration, community planning, or a related field, and a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible leadership and managerial experience in an economic development or tourism organization.

The City of Scottsdale provides a comprehensive benefits program.
To learn more, you can click here to view the brochure.

Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with résumé, cover letter, and five professional references. You can access the job ad directly by visiting this link .

Deadline for applications is October 15, 2025. For more information, contact Mary Jacobs, MGT Director - Human Capital Solutions, at 847-380-3240 ext. 117.

Full-Time Positions:
The City of Scottsdale offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday and medical leave as well as insurance for medical, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability insurance. For a more detailed overview of the employee benefits, click here .

Part-Time Positions:
The City of Scottsdale offers paid medical leave for part-time staff.

Commute Solutions Program
City of Scottsdale provides free Valley Metro Platinum passes to employees for the bus and light rail systems when commuting; a vanpool subsidy is also available. Employees can decrease stress, decrease wear & tear on their vehicle, and help the environment all at the same time.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
The City of Scottsdale is considered a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). You may find more information about the PSFL program by going to the Federal Student Aid website by clicking here .

Closing Date/Time: 10/15/2025 11:59 PM Arizona

Salary:

$167,086.40 - $225,700.80 Annually