Colleen Schwab promoted to Greater Phoenix Economic Council Chief Performance Officer

Published: 02/03/2022

Schwab to further support the award-winning regional economic development organization, leading the strategy, engagement, marketing and communication teams

The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) has named Colleen Schwab its Chief Performance Officer. Previously the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Schwab is responsible for maintaining the GPEC brand identity and reputation in the region and will support the development of priorities for new initiatives and projects within the organization.

“The story we tell draws businesses and families to the region and drives conversation around the GPEC brand; it’s a critical aspect to the work we do,” said Chris Camacho, president and CEO of GPEC. “Colleen has spearheaded omni-channel campaigns that have been instrumental to the growth of GPEC, and her expertise will help to carry us forward as we advance efforts imperative to a comprehensive economic development paradigm.”

As an economic development executive, Schwab has worked domestically and internationally with corporate leaders, site selectors, capital partners and developers to support the market entry of leading businesses expanding or relocating to Greater Phoenix. At GPEC, she has launched award-winning campaigns, including #CAStruggles, #AZFreeToBe and The Connected Place, which built a regional identity around loT and sensor technology. Schwab also launched the organization’s “Greater Together” branding refresh.

“The purpose-driven work done at GPEC drew me to this organization, and I’m humbled by the extraordinary task of showcasing our vision for the region,” said Schwab. “I’m eager to build upon what we’ve already done within this space, and to discover new avenues for driving conversation around business in Greater Phoenix.”

Prior to joining GPEC, Schwab was VP of Marketing at the Colon Cancer Alliance in Washington D.C. She has served many Arizona-based urban and rural organizations by providing marketing services and fundraising for causes such as affordable housing, drug prevention, support for survivors of domestic violence and more. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she also launched The Random Letter Project, a global social movement inspiring connection.

In 2019, Schwab received a “40 under 40” award from the Phoenix Business Journal, which annually identifies talent for their positive impact in business and the community. She currently serves on the board of Arouet, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting second-chance employment and empowering women as they exit the prison system. Schwab is also on the International Economic Development Council’s Young Professionals Committee, serves in a consultancy role for startups and engages with local leadership in several spaces.

“GPEC is bigger than just one person,” said Schwab. “It’s through collective input and collaboration that we continue to successfully serve our region’s businesses and communities.”

Schwab began her executive position in January 2022.