Reviewing the raw numbers of square footage built and dollars spent on new projects across the state in recent years may leave a false impression that economic development is easy. Far from it — success requires deep market knowledge, keen communication skills and a commitment to collaboration with elected officials, municipal employees and the private sector.

“We always say that economic development is a team sport,” explains Jaye O’Donnell, economic development director for the City of Mesa. “It takes a lot of different partners coming together to get a project done.”

With guidance from the city manager, economic development practitioners are tasked with translating the goals of the council into actionable tactics that will bring in new investment and keep established companies within

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