By Lindsay Walker
Twitter: @AzNewsmedia

Phoenix City Manager Ed Zuercher has named two new deputy city managers who will join the city on May 10.

Ginger Spencer and Gina Montes were chosen after a national recruitment process, according to a news release from the city of Phoenix.

Ginger and Gina bring to their new roles strategic expertise and experience that will enhance and complete our executive leadership team,” said Mr. Zuercher in a statement Wednesday. “Both have vast experience leading some of the largest public-facing departments in their respective cities and have been on the frontline, navigating through the pandemic. This experience will be critical as we continue to rebound as a city.”

Ms. Montes has worked in local government for over 26 years and most recently served as assistant city manager in nearby Avondale. She began her career at the city of Phoenix as an internal auditor and worked her way through the ranks to become the deputy director of the city’s Human Services Department before moving to Avondale.

Ms. Spencer began her career at the city of Phoenix in 1998, serving as a management assistant. She served in a number of roles before she was named Public Works Director in 2017. She was recognized by Emerging Local Government Leaders in 2018 as one of the top 100 influencers in local government.

She has also led the city’s COVID-19 testing efforts throughout the pandemic to ensure access and equity to the city’s most vulnerable people.

The city manager is appointed by the Mayor and Phoenix City Council and is responsible for the day-to-day management of city operations. Mr. Zuercher’s team is comprised of an assistant city manager and six deputy city managers which oversee more than 30 departments, including public safety, water and finances.