Alex Iams Named Interim Director of Arlington Economic Development
Published on July 12, 2019
Arlington County Manager Mark Schwartz has named Alex Iams interim director of Arlington Economic Development. Iams currently serves as assistant director of the department. He succeeds Victor Hoskins, who has served as director since January 2015.
"As a key member of Arlington's economic development team, Alex brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this critical role," Arlington County Manager Mark Schwartz said. "Alex has a deep understanding of and strong relationships with Arlington's business and civic communities, which will help ensure continued economic success in Arlington's future."
Iams' work in Arlington has helped Arlington County find national success in economic development, working on the teams that recruited Amazon, Nestle USA, and Lidl. He will begin in his new role as Hoskins leaves to head up the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority effective August 5.
"Victor leaves Arlington with a legacy of significantly lowering the commercial vacancy rate and diversifying the economy," Schwartz said. "It is an exciting time for Arlington and our region. We know that Victor will continue to be a force for good in our regional collaboration efforts."
About Alex Iams
Alex Iams has spent the last 16 years working in economic development, including the past 12 with Arlington County. He has been the Assistant Director at Arlington Economic Development (AED) since 2014, focusing on efforts to lower the office vacancy rate and diversify the local economy. Before joining the director's office, Iams worked on the land use and infrastructure finance plans for the redevelopment of Crystal City and the Columbia Pike area.
In addition, he has served in various leadership roles in Arlington County government, including a four-year term on the Arlington County Employee Retirement System Board of Trustees and as Acting Assistant Director of the Department of Environmental Services.
Iams has a master's degree in City and Regional Planning from the Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington.
About Arlington Economic Development
Arlington Economic Development (AED) is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of an economically competitive and sustainable community, and the creation of exciting, diverse and amenity-rich places. AED provides visionary leadership and superior services to Arlington's business and arts community, its tourism industry and its real estate development. For more information, visit arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com.