Thomas Maynard Appointed Interim CEO of Greater Phoenix Economic Council

News Summary

Thomas Maynard has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) following Chris Camacho’s departure. Maynard, who has been with GPEC since 2013, will focus on executing strategic initiatives during the search for a permanent CEO. His appointment follows a significant period of growth for GPEC under Camacho’s leadership. The transition aims to maintain momentum in attracting investments and fostering innovation in the Greater Phoenix area.

Phoenix, Arizona – Thomas Maynard has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), effective August 2, following the departure of Chris Camacho, who led the organization for 17 years. This decision was made by the board-led search committee and has received approval from executive committee members.

Maynard, a long-time member of GPEC since August 2013, previously held the role of Senior Vice President of Business Development. During his tenure at GPEC, he played a significant role in co-leading the organization’s business development strategy, overseeing the attraction of international investments, and enhancing collaboration across various functions within the council.

As Interim CEO, Maynard will focus on executing GPEC’s strategic initiatives, ensuring continued investor and community engagement during the process of finding a permanent successor. Derrick Hall, the Chair of GPEC’s Board of Directors, noted Maynard’s sophisticated approach to business development and his vital contributions to prominent projects in the Greater Phoenix region.

Leadership Transition Following Camacho’s Departure

Chris Camacho’s departure marks a significant transition for GPEC as he moves into a leadership role with Axon, a technology company. Under his leadership, GPEC achieved several accolades, including being recognized as a top economic development organization by Site Selection Magazine for nine consecutive years. In 2021, the organization garnered global recognition from the International Economic Development Council for its efforts, particularly for facilitating a multibillion-dollar investment from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing.

Throughout his time with GPEC, Camacho was instrumental in the growth and development of the Phoenix economy. In 2024 alone, GPEC assisted 50 companies in relocating or expanding within Greater Phoenix, generating over 6,600 jobs and more than $2 billion in capital investment.

Maynard’s Experience and Future Goals

Before his tenure at GPEC, Chris Camacho was also the president and CEO of the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation, where he gained vital experience in economic development.

Thomas Maynard, as he steps into the new role, is committed to maintaining the momentum that has characterized GPEC’s operations. His experience, having worked with numerous companies to assess Greater Phoenix for growth potential, positions him well to oversee the strategic direction of the organization during this transition. His focus will be on fostering opportunities and encouraging innovation in the region.

New Board Membership and Future Directions

Additionally, Mike Madsen, the former President and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace, has recently joined the board of the Partnership for Economic Innovation (PEI). His objective is to elevate Arizona’s status as a global leader in advanced technology and manufacturing. Madsen brings over 30 years of aerospace industry experience and aims to create an environment conducive to high-value production and local investments in Arizona.

This ongoing evolution within GPEC and related organizations reflects a broader commitment to economic development and innovation in the Greater Phoenix area, highlighting the emphasis on collaboration between government, businesses, and community stakeholders.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Phoenix Housing Market Faces Shift as Listings Surge
Phoenix Industrial Construction Slows but Pipeline Remains Strong
Valley Metro Elects New Officers for Transit Leadership
Dutch Bros Coffee Moves Headquarters to Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee Announces Run for Superintendent
GTI Energy to Invest $53 Million in Goodyear, Arizona
GenTech Partners with Balsz School District for AI Education
Greater Phoenix Economic Council Wins Award for Excellence
TSMC Begins Construction on New Facility in Phoenix
Arizona’s Advanced Manufacturing Sector is Booming

Additional Resources

• AZ Big Media: Thomas Maynard Appointed Interim CEO of GPEC
• AZ Central: Greater Phoenix Economic Council President Hired by Axon
• Arizona Digital Free Press: Partnership for Economic Innovation Adds Mike Madsen
• Axios: Inside the Valley’s $158 Billion Creative Economy
• Arizona Commerce: GTI Energy Announces Manufacturing Expansion in Goodyear
• Wikipedia: Economic Development
• Google Search: Greater Phoenix Economic Council
• Google Scholar: Economic Development Arizona
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Economics
• Google News: Greater Phoenix Economic Council