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The city of Fort Worth has appointed Jessica Rogers as the next director of the Economic Development Department, effective Sept. 15.
Jessica Rogers
Rogers succeeds Robert Sturns, who left the city to become the executive director of Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County.
Rogers currently serves as assistant city manager for the city of Tomball, where she oversees multiple operational areas and strategic initiatives. She brings extensive experience in fostering business growth, attracting new investment, and enhancing community vitality.
“Jessica’s proven leadership and track record in economic development make her the ideal choice to help Fort Worth achieve its ambitious goals,” said City Manager Jay Chapa in a statement. “We look forward to seeing the impact she will have in growing our economy and supporting our community.”
Before her role in Tomball, Rogers was director of economic development for the city of Denton, where she led transformative projects, developed innovative incentive programs, established an economic development strategic plan, and strengthened public-private partnerships to drive sustainable growth. She has also held positions with the city of Dickinson in Texas, and the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation in Indiana.
In her new role, Rogers will lead Fort Worth’s economic development strategy, with a focus on business recruitment and retention, workforce development, small business development, and building a vibrant and diverse economy. She will also collaborate with the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership.
“I’m looking forward to joining the outstanding team at the city of Fort Worth and I’m excited to begin collaborating with the Economic Development Partnership and others to bolster business growth, attract new investment to Fort Worth and build economic vitality,” Rogers said.
Rogers holds a master of public affairs degree from Indiana University’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University. She is an active member of the International City/County Management Association and the Texas City Management Association.