The start of a new year is traditionally the time we step back — if only for a moment — from our daily routines to take stock of where we are heading and what opportunities the new year may hold in store.
Arizonans have a lot to look forward to in 2017 — and the credit goes to our business owners, entrepreneurs and their hard-working employees making it clear that our state is the place to be.
Uber’s recent announcement that the company will be moving its self-driving vehicle program to Arizona is a reflection of how open our state is to new, exciting ideas and business models.
Uber isn’t by any means the first company to see our state’s bright future, and it won’t be the last.
Last year’s flurry of economic expansions in Arizona is a clear sign to the rest of the country that we’re looking forward while other states are still looking backward — and, only months away from hosting Spring Training and the NCAA Final Four, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to keep showcasing all we have to offer.
Helping the business community keep informed about economic trends and functional issues that impact both day-to-day and long-term operations has been the mission of In Business Magazine from its inception. To that end, the staff makes a point of inviting a business or community leader well-grounded in the cover story topic to be the Guest Editor of the monthly edition. That roster is comprised of a truly illustrious list of leaders — many of whom have once again shared their perspective on their industry and the current economy to give us the cover story for 2017’s inaugural issue.
To help businesses step into the year on the right foot, the Briefs pages start with an article presenting business resolutions for company success. Two “Leadership” articles examine leadership in the era of digital disruption and how building a context for leader growth improves both business and talent outcomes.
Nonprofits — treated by In Business Magazine as businesses separate from their social mission — are a regular focus. This month’s article looks at the transformational power of a major campaign. This month’s Roundtable expands the usual single-page feature to three pages as it explores ethics from different angles and offers a mind-opening view of what inspires and motivates the ethical choice.
Its diverse content covering business activity, healthcare, technology and even where to enjoy that “Power Lunch” continues to make In Business Magazine a reliable resource for the Greater Phoenix business community. I’m pleased to join the roster of Guest Editors. I hope you enjoy this issue, and wish you a prosperous new year.
Sincerely,
Doug Ducey
Governor
The State of Arizona
Doug Ducey is the 23rd governor of Arizona. He previously served as state treasurer and was the chief executive officer of Cold Stone Creamery, growing the company from a few local Arizona stores into a worldwide brand.