Texas – Helen Ramirez has been named as San Marcos’ first director for the economic and local business development department. Leading the newly established office, Ramirez will support investment in both long-standing businesses and attract new private sector investments in San Marcos. She brings a wealth of experience in public-private partnerships and in addressing community needs.
Colorado – Bret Naber has been announced as the next deputy city manager for the city of Greeley. Naber brings more than 25 years of experience in municipal leadership and operations to the role, previously serving as the city’s chief information officer. A University of Northern Colorado graduate, he spent nearly 23 years with the university system.
Virginia – Amy Smith has been named as Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Director by county officials. She brings experience in park development, facility management and team leadership. She will oversee the department’s capital improvement program in addition to planning, renovating and constructing new parks, facilities and trails countywide.
Florida – Wes Mullins has been announced as the next city manager for the city of Cocoa Beach. Mullins, a police veteran, has previously served as the interim chief of police and as a major for the Cocoa Beach Police Department. With the city, he brings experience from his role as the assistant city manager.
Massachusetts – Richard Bienvenue has been unveiled as the next town manager for Eastham, following his appointment by the Eastham Select Board. Bienvenue will lead the municipality’s strategic initiatives townwide. He previously served as the town’s assistant town manager and finance director for the last five years prior to his appointment.
Washington – Lylianna Allala has been named as the acting director for the Seattle Office of Sustainability & Environment. Allala, an internal promotion, will lead the department, which manages and oversees innovative programs that improve quality of life for residents and ecosystems. She previously worked as the city’s first climate justice director and interim deputy director.
Arizona – Dr. Steven R. Gonzales has announced that he will step down from the chancellorship of Maricopa Community Colleges concluding the current fiscal year in June. Serving as chancellor for the last six years, Dr. Gonzales pioneered several campuswide initiatives and changes, including record enrollment growth, new degree programs and challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
New York – Maya Handa has been announced as New York City’s “World Cup Czar”, in alignment with Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s plan for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Handa will coordinate with city agencies, mayoral offices and public and private sector partners to boost economic and development outcomes before, during and after the event. Handa previously served as Mamdani’s campaign manager during his mayoral run.
