Goodyear hires new economic development director

The city of Goodyear has brought aboard a new economic development director.

James Smith, who brings more than 25 years of business and economic development experience to Goodyear, will lead the city's efforts to attract and retain businesses, support job creation and investment, and strengthen Goodyear's position as a premier destination for economic growth.

"Goodyear is a growing community with numerous assets that bring tremendous opportunity, and I'm excited to help build on the positive momentum," said Smith. "A big part of economic development is listening to what city leadership and our residents want and working to attract the highly desired businesses that add to the city's quality of life."

During more than 12 years with the city of Chandler, Smith held several positions within that city's Economic Development Department and assisted with the location and expansion of several Fortune 500 companies.

Smith later served as economic development director for the town of Fountain Hills, where he led business attraction and retention efforts as well as tourism functions. Smith also served as economic and workforce development director for Pinal County.

Smith holds bachelor's and master's degrees in economics and public administration, respectively, from San José State University. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute and is a Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council. He has also earned the Certified Public Manager designation through Arizona State University.