Palm Springs selects Alex Cooley as next Chief Economic Development Officer
PALM SPRINGS, CALIF. (KESQ) – The City of Palm Springs has selected Gary Alexander “Alex” Cooley as its next Chief Economic Development Officer. Cooley will begin his new position on Monday, December 7.
Cooley brings extensive experience in business development, business attraction, strategic planning and workforce development. He most recently served as Director of Business Development for the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership in Virginia, where he led business recruitment, retention and expansion initiatives.
Previously, he held economic development leadership positions at Dallas College in Texas and Northern Virginia Community College. He also helped develop ALX Forward, Alexandria’s economic development roadmap, through collaboration with businesses, residents and public-sector leaders.
In Palm Springs, Cooley will help advance the city’s Economic Development Strategic Plan, support major initiatives including the Convention Center Expansion and Airport Master Plan, attract new investment and strengthen local businesses. His priorities will also include expanding opportunities in emerging industries such as technology, sustainability and the creative economy.
“Alex’s extensive economic development experience, collaborative approach and vision for sustainable growth make him an excellent addition to our executive leadership team,” said Interim City Manager Jim Vanderpool.
Cooley said he looks forward to building on Palm Springs’ economic strengths, attracting investment and creating opportunities for local businesses and residents.
“Successful economic development starts with listening, building relationships, and bringing the community together around a shared vision for the future,” Cooley said.
Cooley holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council.
Mayor Naomi Soto welcomed the appointment, noting that Cooley’s experience and ability to build partnerships will be valuable as Palm Springs enters its next chapter of economic development.
Click here to follow the original article.