The Peoria City Council approved the appointment of Mike Faust to serve as the city’s next City Manager, effective March 1, at their Regular Meeting. Faust will replace current City Manager Henry Darwin, who is stepping down to fulfill a one-year transitional role as Executive Consultant to the City Manager. Darwin’s one-year contract was also approved by Council last night.
Faust, who joined the city in 2023 as Deputy City Manager, has supported Peoria’s Economic Development, Planning, Development and Engineering, Office of Innovation and Neighborhood Services Departments. Prior to his service to Peoria, he served as the Arizona Department of Child Services Director and before that, he worked for the Governor’s Transformation Office. He has more than 25 years of management and consulting experience and earned a bachelor’s degree in business management.
“The past three years, this Council has asked for some very heavy lifts in the areas that Mike has overseen and he and his teams have delivered exceptionally well,” said Mayor Jason Beck. “From the historic state land auction that will secure our city revenues and jobs for generations, to inking deals that attracted new medical and education choices to Peoria, Mike was engaged in it all and will continue to lead as the top CEO of the city’s organization moving forward.”
“Peoria has been my home for more than a decade,” said Faust. “To serve as the next City Manager is a privilege knowing that I will continue to work with this incredible Council and staff in keeping our city the most special place to live, do business in, and enjoy the beautiful outdoor amenities that make our city special.”
“I also want to express my gratitude to Henry Darwin who took on the role as City Manager when this Council asked him to do so and for assembling and mentoring the very best executive leadership team and city staff that allows for a smart succession plan to keep our city thriving,” added Mayor Beck. “I’m grateful that he will continue to support in a transitionary role for the next year.”
City Manager Faust will receive an annual base salary of $325,000 under the three-year employment contract.
The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and serves as the city’s chief executive officer; responsible for implementing the policy and programs of the elected body and managing city operations.
