Kate Ange Named Acting Director of Arlington Economic Development
Published on October 31, 2025
Arlington County Manager Mark Schwartz has named Katharine (Kate) Ange Acting Director of Arlington Economic Development (AED), following the departure of AED Director Ryan Touhill on November 7, 2025. Touhill has served as director since November 2022.
Ange came to Arlington as AED’s Deputy Director in September 2023 and has been instrumental in many of the efforts that are helping position Arlington to face the ongoing economic challenges in the region and strengthen the County’s resiliency.
"Kate has become a critical part of the AED team since arriving in Arlington," said Schwartz. "Her wealth of knowledge, excellent teambuilding and leadership skills, and experience fostering partnerships and advancing initiatives will position Arlington for economic success now and in the future."
In her role as Deputy Director, Ange has focused on the development and implementation of a new strategic plan for AED and strengthening external partnerships to achieve positive economic outcomes.
She has also contributed significantly to the Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative (CMRI) and advancing efforts to form a Tourism Improvement District (TID) in Arlington. She currently serves as the liaison to all three of the County’s BIDs, works closely with the Economic Development Commission, and oversees AED’s Business Investment Group, the Arlington Convention and Visitor Service, BizLaunch, and the Communications team.
Trained as a city planner, Ange spent nearly three decades working with local and state governments, regional planning organizations, and federal agencies on the advancement of community development efforts before coming to Arlington County.
Kate holds a Master of Planning in Urban and Environmental Planning from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Rollins College. She has been an Arlington resident since 2009.
Arlington County will soon begin recruitment to identify a new AED Director who will continue ensuring Arlington remains a key destination for talent, jobs and visitors alike while also recruiting and helping our existing diverse businesses grow and thrive.
About Arlington Economic Development
Arlington Economic Development (AED) is dedicated to fostering a dynamic and diverse business community that drives innovation and economic growth in Arlington, Virginia. AED works closely with entrepreneurs, investors and global businesses to ensure Arlington remains a top destination for emerging industries. Learn more at www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com.