ST. GEORGE — The city has hired Chad Thomas as its economic development director, according to a press release issued Wednesday by the city.
As the new economic development director, Thomas will lead the city’s efforts to foster economic growth, attract investments and enhance the overall prosperity of Utah’s fifth-largest city.
“The opportunity to work in a city that has the amount of economic diversification coupled with the area’s scenic and recreational opportunities was highly attractive,” Thomas said in the news release. “St. George has all the right ingredients to be successful: airport, university, vibrant downtown, educated workforce, investment in infrastructure, great healthcare and a high quality of life.”
With an extensive background in economic development, Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a passion for building thriving communities. His most recent roles were as vice president of economic development for Iredell County EDC, North Carolina, and economic manager of development and tourism for the town of Kilmarnock, Virginia.
He has extensive Utah ties, as he was involved in economic development in Layton City and Provo City. In Layton, he administered the Community Development Block Grant program that assisted in the redevelopment of Layton Station and provided funding to essential public service programs. In Provo, he managed downtown development and the city’s Brownfield program.
Thomas is a 2011 graduate of Southern Utah University and earned his master’s degree from Appalachian State in 2013. He is enthusiastic about the challenges ahead.
“St. George is definitely on the map. However, it’s important to balance growth and preservation; ensuring St. George doesn’t lose its unique characteristics,” he said in the release. “While most of the attention in economic development is the attraction of new businesses, I want to ensure our existing industries and businesses receive equal attention. Businesses of all sizes play an essential role in the city’s economy.”
City Manager John Willis expressed confidence in Thomas’ ability to drive the city’s economic agenda forward, serving as a liaison to the business community and public and private sector partners.
“We are thrilled to have Chad join our team. He brings a fresh perspective, a depth of knowledge, and a strategic vision that aligns perfectly with our city’s growth objectives,” Willis said in the news release. “We love his energy and positive attitude. He’s going to hit the ground running and work extremely well with members of our community.”