News Summary
Arizona is set for significant economic advancement by 2025, driven by influential business leaders who are steering policy and fostering innovation. Individuals from various sectors are spearheading initiatives that create jobs, enhance educational access, and improve community engagement. Their contributions are vital in positioning Arizona as a competitive and inclusive market, paving the way for sustainable growth and development across the state.
Arizona is poised for significant economic growth, driven by the influence of prominent business leaders shaping its landscape in 2025. These figures are pivotal in directing policy, fostering innovation, and creating job opportunities across the state.
Key Leaders Driving Arizona’s Economy
The Most Powerful People in Arizona Business for 2025 play critical roles in steering the state’s economic direction. Their influence extends to investment strategies, job creation, and the establishment of public-private partnerships, all of which are vital for the state’s economic health. Recognizing these leaders can assist businesses in anticipating trends and remaining competitive within Arizona’s evolving marketplace.
Walt Brown, Jr.
As the founder, CEO, and designated broker of Diversified Partners, Walt Brown, Jr. is spearheading transformative projects including the redevelopment of Metrocenter Mall and Mesa’s Revel Surf Park. His firm has over $4 billion in planned transactions through 2026, indicating a substantial impact on the local economy.
Barry Chasse
Founder and president of CHASSE Building Team, Barry Chasse has expanded his company from 10 employees in 2007 to over 225 in Phoenix and Tucson. He has also contributed more than $4 million to community programs aimed at supporting children, demonstrating a commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Michael Crow
As president of Arizona State University (ASU), Michael Crow has transformed the institution into a model of innovation and inclusivity. He has expanded enrollment significantly and launched over 30 transdisciplinary schools while securing increased research funding, which bolsters ASU’s economic contributions.
Dr. José Luis Cruz Rivera
Driving initiatives like Access2Excellence at Northern Arizona University, Dr. José Luis Cruz Rivera has successfully increased in-state enrollment and attracted $190 million in private investment, further enhancing educational accessibility and economic development.
Jim Currier
As president and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, Jim Currier is known for advancing workforce development programs that prepare individuals for high-tech careers, essential for Arizona’s growing aerospace industry.
Charley Freericks
Charley Freericks, president of the Phoenix Region for Howard Hughes, leads the development of Teravalis, a master-planned community that is set to shape residential and commercial growth in the area.
Ernest Garcia III
The co-founder and CEO of Carvana, Ernest Garcia III has revolutionized the used car buying experience through a digital platform, impacting retail and technology sectors in Arizona.
Karla Lewis
Karla Lewis oversees Reliance Steel & Aluminum Company, recognized as one of North America’s largest metal service centers, contributing to the state’s manufacturing capabilities and economic diversity.
Joseph Hogan
Joseph Hogan, president and CEO of Align Technology, has expanded the company globally while enhancing Arizona’s status in the medtech industry, particularly through the known Invisalign product.
Vicky Peacey
As president and general manager of Resolution Copper, Vicky Peacey focuses on sustainability practices and community engagement in the mining sector, balancing resource extraction with ecological concerns.
Sandra Watson
President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, Sandra Watson has been instrumental in attracting 1,369 companies that have created over 314,000 jobs and invested $196 billion in capital, showcasing her impact on economic growth.
Giel Rutten
Leading Amkor Technology, Giel Rutten is advocating for a $2 billion advanced packaging facility in Peoria, which will bolster Arizona’s position as a center for semiconductor manufacturing.
David Sellers
As CEO of LGE Design Build and Creation Equity, David Sellers drives large-scale architectural and real estate developments that contribute to urban growth and infrastructure development.
Todd LaPorte
Todd LaPorte, CEO of HonorHealth, emphasizes patient-centered innovation, further advancing healthcare delivery and accessibility within Arizona.
Heidi Jannenga
Heidi Jannenga, co-founder and chief clinical officer at WebPT, advocates for women’s representation in health tech, promoting diversity in a field that is showing rapid growth.
Amy Perry
Acknowledged among the top leaders in healthcare, Amy Perry serves as CEO of Banner Health, significantly influencing health service provision throughout Arizona.
Ken Kendrick
As the managing partner of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Ken Kendrick plays a crucial role in the intersection of sports, business, and philanthropy, contributing to Arizona’s community and economy.
Joyce Mullen
President and CEO of Insight Enterprises, Joyce Mullen leads a $10.4 billion global solutions integrator, playing a key role in technology solutions and services in the region.
Sheryl Palmer
Sheryl Palmer, chair and CEO of Taylor Morrison, focuses on expanding opportunities for women in construction, enhancing diversity and innovation within the industry.
Conclusion
This collection of leaders reflects the breadth of influence driving economic growth in Arizona. Their collective contributions across various sectors play a crucial role in shaping the state’s future, ensuring it remains competitive and inclusive as it moves toward 2025.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AZ Big Media: Most Powerful People in Arizona Business for 2025
- Google Search: Arizona Business leaders 2025
- Signals AZ: Glendale Named Arizona’s Best City for Business
- Wikipedia: Economy of Arizona
- AZ Big Media: 50 Arizona Business Leaders to Watch in 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- AZ Big Media: 50 Biggest Employers in Arizona
- Google Search: Arizona business growth
- ABC15: Successful Business Leaders in Arizona
- Google News: Arizona entrepreneurs
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
