The City of Phoenix is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Touhill as the new Community and Economic Development Director.
Touhill brings nearly two decades of experience in local government and economic development, most recently serving as Director of Arlington Economic Development (AED) in Virginia. There, he led the creation and implementation of AED’s Strategic Plan for Economic Growth, positioning Arlington as a leader in the region’s tech and innovation ecosystem. Under his leadership, AED secured millions in new investment and supported the creation of thousands of jobs, while launching successful initiatives such as the All In Arlington tourism campaign and policies to revitalize commercial districts.
Ryan Touhill (Image credit – City of Phoenix)
Prior to his role in Arlington, Touhill served as Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership, where he played a key role in securing Amazon’s second headquarters and Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus for Northern Virginia. He also led COVID-19 economic relief programs, supporting hundreds of small businesses and protecting thousands of jobs. Touhill’s career began in the City of Alexandria’s budget and human resources departments, and he has been recognized for his service by Virginia Business Magazine, George Mason University, and the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.
“Ryan’s proven track record of driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and supporting community development makes him an outstanding choice to lead Phoenix’s Community and Economic Development Department,” said City Manager Jeffrey J Barton. “We are confident that his leadership will build on an already strong foundation ensuring Phoenix advances as a premier destination for business and opportunity.”
Touhill holds a Bachelor of Arts from George Mason University and a Master of Public Administration from George Washington University. He is an active member of the Virginia Economic Developers Association and the Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance.
Touhill succeeds Christine Mackay, who retired after 11 years of distinguished service to lead the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) as President & CEO. He will begin his new role on December 1, 2025.
He will begin his new role on December 1, 2025.