The city of Glendale is pleased to announce the selection of Dan Henderson as Economic Development Director. Henderson has served for the past 19 years in that same role for the town of Gilbert. He brings a strong record of translating economic development strategy into tangible community results.
In this role, Henderson will be pivotal in shaping the vitality and long-term growth of Glendale. He is tasked with ensuring that the city remains a competitive and attractive destination. This includes reinvigorating the historic downtown, which will celebrate a $90 million city hall and downtown campus renovation this summer. Additionally, he will oversee the arts and culture initiatives and Experience Glendale tourism divisions of the city.
“Dan played a key role in the town of Gilbert’s award-winning revitalization of the Heritage District, which is one of the Valley’s most celebrated downtown transformations,” said Glendale City Manager Patrick Banger. “We have tremendous assets, and he is the leader we need to connect those assets to the right investors, employers and opportunities.”
His work in Gilbert, which is now a model for other communities pursuing similar goals, attracted more than $4 billion in new investments and activated 20-million square feet of development.
“I am honored to join Glendale and contribute to a community with extraordinary momentum,” said Henderson. “Glendale’s commitment to innovation, strategic investment and an exceptional quality of life is inspiring. I look forward to partnering with city leadership, businesses and residents to advance a strong, vibrant future.”
Henderson is a Certified Economic Developer and holds a bachelor's degree in management and finance and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix. He has served as guest lecturer for the Master of Real Estate Development program at Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business.
His first day will be May 18.