Gila River Development, owned by the Gila River Indian Community, recently appointed its newest general manager, Duncan Wiston.

A proud member of the Gila River Indian Community from Blackwater in District One, Wiston began his career in the Tribal Health Department, where he contributed to various initiatives, from car seat safety to fall prevention, according to a news release.

Later, Wiston worked at Gila River Telecommunications, Inc. for 13 years, where he held various leadership roles and worked on both the state and federal levels to provide funding to help expand tribal broadband for GRIC and other tribes.

Through his connections in telecommunications, Wiston crossed paths with Gila River Development — formerly known as Wild Horse Pass Development — and was intrigued by the growth and projects happening within the area footprint.

Wiston transitioned to GRD and became the assistant general manager of business operations in July 2024. In February 2025, Wiston transitioned to the interim general manager role, and then officially became general manager on June 2.

He oversees a 3,300-acre master-planned development focused on commerce and leisure, and manages Gila River Business Enterprises, Gila Gas & Goods, Gila River Outdoor, Whirlwind Golf Club, Toka Sticks Golf Club, Rawhide Western Town, Firebird Motorsports Park, Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass and Four Points by Sheraton at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

Wiston’s focus at Gila River Development is on fostering sustainable business models and driving long-term economic growth for GRIC, while building essential infrastructure to support the thriving hospitality sector at Wild Horse Pass, the release states.

“As a member of the community, I know how important it is to not only make the right decisions for today, but for future generations as well,” said Wiston. “It’s all about creating business models that are sustainable and can grow and create opportunities for our people – from the revenue that we generate, to the jobs and career paths we can create.”

One challenge that Wiston faces in his role is finding the balance between business decision-making and being cognizant of the community the team is working for.

“We face some unique challenges as a rural tribal community in getting products to various locations,” said Wiston. “For example, one of the most meaningful projects I am working on now is the Sacaton Market, where I need to find ways to bring quality products to this stunning new facility, while making sure that the costs remain affordable. For many, this is the closest place for them to get milk and eggs. So, I must leverage my expertise in finding unique solutions.”

Through his work, Wiston hopes to inspire other GRIC members to achieve leadership roles like his.

“There’s a lot of moving parts and responsibilities that fall on my shoulders, but I have had the privilege of growing up with great leaders who have paved the way for me to get here,” said Wiston. “These individuals have fought for our water rights, had the forethought to enter the gaming world and opened all the business lines you see at Wild Horse Pass. I respect and appreciate the work they’ve done and look forward to continuing their legacy and encouraging youth to aspire to be part of the continued growth of the Gila River Indian Community.”

Learn more about Gila River Development, visit gilariverdev.com.

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