Joshua Gunn Named New Director of Durham’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development

The City of Durham has named Joshua Gunn as the next director of its Office of Economic and Workforce Development. He will begin his new role on July 14, 2025.

Gunn is a nationally recognized economic development leader with a strong track record of helping communities build thriving, inclusive economies. A Durham native, Gunn brings a unique blend of executive leadership, entrepreneurial experience, and cultural insight to this role.

He currently serves as president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce in Arizona, where he leads strategy for one of the fastest-growing regions in the country and represents more than 1,500 businesses in the greater Phoenix area.

Previously, he served as president and CEO of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce in Illinois, where he guided the organization through a period of economic transition. During his tenure, he led workforce development initiatives, launched regional talent attraction campaigns, and implemented diversity-focused strategies to expand business membership and support minority-owned enterprises.

Gunn's appointment marks a return to Durham, where he served as vice president of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce from 2016 to 2020. In that role, he helped lead corporate recruitment, economic development, and policy advocacy efforts. His deep local roots include experience as an entrepreneur, consultant, and community organizer.

"We're excited to welcome Joshua back to Durham in this important leadership role," said City Manager Bo Ferguson. "He brings not only experience in building strong, inclusive economies in other major cities, but also a personal understanding of our city's values and opportunities. His passion for connecting people to economic opportunity - and his collaborative, innovative approach - make him the right choice to lead this work forward."

As director, Gunn will oversee the City's efforts to connect its residents to good-paying jobs, grow Durham's commercial tax base, incorporate innovative strategies to build wealth for residents, and ensure residents are prepared for success in current and emerging industries. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development also promotes revitalization in downtown and targeted neighborhoods and provides technical and financial assistance to support local businesses.

In addition to his economic development work, Gunn brings a creative lens to leadership. A lifelong artist and cultural entrepreneur, he began performing hip-hop at an early age and went on to release critically acclaimed music, tour internationally, and co-found a music and entertainment company. His experience in the creative industries informs his inclusive approach to economic development.

"Returning to Durham to help lead its economic future is both a personal homecoming and a professional calling," said Gunn. "This city has shaped who I am - as an artist, entrepreneur, and leader - and I believe it holds the blueprint for what inclusive, innovative growth can look like. I'm committed to building an economy where every resident has a pathway to prosperity, and where Durham's creative spirit and bold ideas fuel our shared success. I'm eager to work alongside the dedicated team at the City, our business community, and residents to turn bold vision into lasting impact."

Gunn is a graduate of Jordan High School and holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He was named a national "Top 40 Under 40" executive by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives in 2019, and is widely recognized as a bold, inclusive leader in community and economic transformation.