Chris Camacho to depart GPEC after 17 years of visionary economic development leadership

Published: 06/27/2025

GPEC President & CEO Chris Camacho to step into senior leadership role at Axon

PHOENIX (June 27, 2025) — The Board of Directors and leadership team of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) celebrate the exceptional impact of President and CEO Chris Camacho as he transitions to join Axon in a senior leadership role. Over Camacho’s 17 years with the organization, GPEC and its partners have played an instrumental role in the evolution of Greater Phoenix’s internationally competitive economy and created lasting prosperity across the region behind his steadfast, forward-looking leadership. Camacho leaves an enduring impression on our team and the region, having guided GPEC’s growth as an award-winning, globally impactful organization built upon innovation, collaboration and results-driven strategy.

Our unique, public-private model brings together some of the brightest leaders across the region and country. Combined with the deep experience and commitment of our team, GPEC has strategically attracted over 1,000 companies, transforming our economy into the resilient, future-focused market we are today. 

“Chris’ leadership is reflected over the last decade of Greater Phoenix’s abundant growth: pragmatic, a focus on long-term impact, and an unselfish, can-do attitude. Since he joined GPEC in 2008, he has shaped strategy that has created a new, resilient region centered around deep partnerships and future-focused industries. His impact on Greater Phoenix cannot be overstated, and we are grateful for how he has helped GPEC evolve into an internationally renowned economic development organization. Best of luck to Chris as he takes on this new opportunity with Axon.” – Derrick Hall, Chairman of GPEC Board of Directors and Arizona Diamondbacks President and CEO

“GPEC has been fortunate to benefit from Chris’ vision and purpose-focused leadership, which has created a strong team that’s grounded in our mission to serve Greater Phoenix. The culture of excellence he has fostered leaves a deep impact on our organization and the field of economic development, including our high-performing team rooted in strategic execution and collaboration. With an eye towards the future, GPEC is operating from a position of strength and is committed to furthering the tremendous growth trajectory Greater Phoenix is experiencing.” – Maureen Howell, Chief Operating Officer, GPEC

“Over my 17 years with GPEC, the organization has executed a highly successful body of work that is building prosperity for the economy, our communities, and the future of Greater Phoenix. The organization’s unique model of partnering with some of the most committed public and private sector leaders in the country has positioned the region as the international competitor it is today, and I’m extremely confident in the GPEC team’s ability to carry this mission forward.” – Chris Camacho, President & CEO, GPEC

As we look forward, our team is well-equipped and committed to carrying on this mission in service of our communities and network as GPEC’s board of directors builds an executive search committee to determine the future of our leadership.

Camacho has served as President & CEO since 2015. Prior, he was GPEC’s executive vice president from 2008-14.

About the Greater Phoenix Economic Council

The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), globally recognized as a top economic development organization (EDO), works to attract and grow quality businesses and advocate for the competitiveness of Greater Phoenix. A data-driven regional EDO, GPEC works with 22 member communities, Maricopa and Pinal counties, and more than 220 private investors to accomplish its mission and serve as a strategic partner to companies across the world as they expand or relocate to Greater Phoenix. Over the past 35 years, GPEC has fueled the regional economy by helping over 1,000 companies, creating nearly 190,000 jobs and $69.4 billion in capital investment. Greater Phoenix is in a relentless pursuit of innovative and entrepreneurial-focused companies looking to thrive and scale in a vibrant, dynamic region. There is an undeniable spirit about Greater Phoenix; one rooted in strength, collaboration and resilience. Greater Phoenix is Greater Together. For more information about GPEC and how we can assist your businesses, visit www.gpec.org.