Gilbert Office of Economic Development Director Dan Henderson, CEcD, was honored last week by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as the recipient of the 2024 Jeffrey A. Finkle Organizational Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to economic development. The distinguished award honors an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, integrity, and a philanthropic spirit while leading the same economic development organization for multiple years.
For nearly two decades, Henderson has advanced economic development efforts in Gilbert by focusing on job creation through business attraction and supporting Gilbert-based businesses, reinvesting in Gilbert’s established economic drivers like the Heritage District, and increasing visitor spending through the expansion of tourism initiatives.
“I am profoundly humbled and honored to accept this award. Reflecting on my 18 years as Economic Development Director, I’ve been fortunate to have the support of our elected officials, Town management, and community leadership. Economic development is a team sport. By investing in people, teams, and systems, we’ve advanced the Town’s mission and contributed significantly to Gilbert’s long-term sustainability,” said Henderson.
During Henderson’s tenure as Economic Development Director, he has overseen 450 projects that announced nearly 30,000 new or retained jobs, represented more than $4 billion in capital investment, and increased office and industrial space for employment growth. Henderson credits the Town of Gilbert’s state, regional, and local partners in economic development, real estate, and infrastructure development for their positive contributions to Gilbert’s sustainable growth in the last decade.
“Dan Henderson’s dedication to Gilbert’s economic success has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership and innovative approach have consistently delivered impactful results for our community. This well-deserved recognition highlights Dan’s ability to not only drive economic growth but also foster a spirit of collaboration that benefits everyone in Gilbert. We are proud to have him on our team, shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for our town,” said Gilbert Town Manager Patrick Banger.
“Economic development thrives on bold leadership, and Dan Henderson exemplifies this through his ability to inspire progress and push for meaningful change. His unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community impact has set a high standard for the profession by forging solutions that strengthen economies and improve lives. This award reflects Dan’s profound influence on the industry and the community he serves,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO.
Dan Henderson was formally recognized at the IEDC 2025 Leadership Summit, held February 23-25 in Washington, D.C. This premier gathering provides economic development professionals a space to explore innovative strategies and strengthen the leadership skills needed in a rapidly changing landscape.
Photo Credit, IEDC: From left to right: Bryan Daniels, CEcD, CCE, IOM, President and CEO of the Blount Partnership – Chair of the IEDC Board; Dan Henderson, CEcD, Economic Development Director, Town of Gilbert; Todd Greene, CEcD, FM, Vice President, Urban Institute and Executive Director, WorkRis – Past Chair of the IEDC Board of Directors (2022); Nathan Ohle, IEDC President & CEO.
