E30 The Future of Tempe with Donna Kennedy and Jill Buschbacher

On this episode of The Future of Work: Water Cooler Conversations we welcome Donna Kennedy and Jill Buschbacher from the City of Tempe. We explored all of the exciting things that are coming to the city and the bright urban future of this historic town. Donna and Jill also discussed the programs the city put into place to help support businesses and their residents through the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you are a business owner and are looking to relocate or add a new location, this episode is a great one to listen to! It highlights many of the reasons why Tempe is a wonderful place to work, live and grow a business. Also, we may have got a little preview of some fun things coming to town. Can you say zip line?! Tune in to hear what the future of work looks like in Tempe, AZ!

Tempe makes waves as a technology and business magnet, an inclusive, caring community and a hub for recreation and adventure.

The City of Tempe’s Economic Development Department’s mission is to lead the region for sustainability, entrepreneurship, innovation and economic growth fueled by the diversity of the community and to enhance the competitive position by attracting, retaining and growing high quality jobs and investment.

Donna Kennedy’s career experience includes two professional fields one in Urban Planning and the other discipline of Economic Development.

Donna has experience within Metropolitan Phoenix; first as Principal Planner in the Town of Buckeye, then went on to the City of Phoenix as a Senior Planner / Hearing Officer then represented Economic Development as Program Manager.

Currently, Donna is with the City of Tempe as Economic Development Director.

Donna has served on various Boards, including LISC, Discovery Triangle, Tempe Community Action Agency, Urban Land Institute Advisory Board and Valley Partnership Board of Directors.

Notable award received: Most Influential Woman in Arizona 2017; Az Business and AZRE magazines

Jill Buschbacher has worked in workforce and economic development in the Valley for the last 20 years – with Maricopa County, City of Phoenix, and now with City of Tempe.

She is a member of the Arizona Association for Economic Development, past Chair of the AAED Professional Education Committee, a graduate of the Aspen Institute’s Sector Skills Academy, and a certified Arizona ED Pro. She has experience serving a variety of industries and especially enjoys helping clients connect with local resources and business connections.

In her current role, Jill manages Tempe’s Business Retention and Expansion Program, entrepreneurship and small business services, and leads a commute solutions initiative with major employers.

Over the last year, she’s led the city’s efforts to assist small businesses hardest hit by the pandemic, coordinating closely with Tempe Chamber, Tempe Tourism, and Downtown Tempe Authority.

Follow Tempe Ecomonic Development on Facebook.