WESTMARC named Kristin Allen as its new president and CEO. Allen, CEO of Global Ties Arizona, will take the helm on Dec. 2, 2026, bringing a proven track record spanning two decades of building partnerships, developing programs and engaging stakeholders.
Allen was selected following a national search led by WESTMARC Board Chair, Bridget Schwartz-Manock. The search took place between July – October and attracted more than 150 applicants from across the country. The WESTMARC Executive Committee selected Allen to build on the organization’s strong foundation while leading its next phase of growth and impact.
“We are excited to have the West Valley well-positioned to continue attracting semiconductor and global investment opportunities,” said Bridget Schwartz-Manock, WESTMARC Board Chair. “Kristin’s experience building partnerships, navigating global opportunities and driving organizational growth makes her ideal to guide WESTMARC into its next chapter. We are confident she will build on our momentum and continue advancing the region’s economic success.”
With more than 17 years of experience in organizational leadership and engagement, Allen is skilled in connecting communities, institutions and industry leaders through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives. Her two decades of work has spanned the philanthropy, business, higher education, government relations and economic development sectors.
As President & CEO of Global Ties for nearly six years, she connected Arizona’s regional strengths with global opportunities. She led significant organizational transformation, expanding its statewide presence, strengthening its team and governance, and broadening programs and partnerships. A proud West Valley resident, Allen brings a strategic vision and collaborative leadership approach that will help further WESTMARC’s mission of advancing economic prosperity throughout the region.
“I am thrilled to join WESTMARC at such an exciting time for the West Valley,” said Kristin Allen, CEO of Global Ties Arizona. “Throughout my career, I have seen the power of partnerships to create meaningful opportunities, and I look forward to building on WESTMARC’s momentum as we continue to elevate the region’s economic success and global competitiveness.”
Current WESTMARC President and CEO Sintra Hoffman will step down on Oct. 30, 2026, after more than a decade of leadership with the organization. Kimberly Jordan, WESTMARC executive vice president, will serve as interim president and CEO from Nov. 2 through Dec. 1 until Allen assumes the role.
