#United States #Economic Development #Fairfax City #Colleen Kardasz

Colleen Kardasz Takes the Helm as Director of Economic Development

On March 10, 2026, the Fairfax City Council announced the appointment of Colleen Kardasz as the new Director of Economic Development. This selection comes after a thorough national search and a rigorous interview process aimed at identifying a leader well-versed in fostering economic growth within the community. Kardasz, who will officially begin her duties on March 30, brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as the assistant director of economic development for Loudoun County since 2017.

Fairfax City Manager Dan Alexander expressed enthusiasm about Kardasz's appointment, stating, "We are excited for Colleen to lead our economic development team." He further emphasized Fairfax's strategic position within Northern Virginia's innovation and technology sectors, highlighting the anticipation for her leadership in bolstering the city's business community and expanding local opportunities.

In her new role, Kardasz will also function as the Chief Executive Officer of the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority. This position will give her oversight of the city’s comprehensive economic development strategies and the management of its development portfolio. Leading a dedicated team of 12 staff members and consultants, her primary objectives will be to enhance the local economy, support existing businesses, and attract investments to position Fairfax as a prime destination for entrepreneurship and innovation on both regional and international stages.

During her tenure in Loudoun County, Kardasz was instrumental in implementing a strategic economic development plan which saw the successful launch of numerous initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining businesses. She served as the staff liaison to the county's Economic Development Authority and played a critical role in establishing the Northern Virginia Economic Alliance. Her contributions included developing procurement policies, securing initial banking relationships, managing foundational grants, and navigating legal and organizational frameworks to foster economic growth in the region.

Before her impactful work in Loudoun County, Kardasz served as the director of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's Export Assistance Network. In this role, she was dedicated to supporting small and mid-sized manufacturing businesses in expanding their reach through international business development.

Kardasz holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Toledo College of Law, alongside a bachelor's degree in communications and Spanish, graduating magna cum laude from Hiram College. Her professional credentials are bolstered by her membership in the International City/County Management Association and her qualification as a Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council.

About Fairfax City Economic Development

The Fairfax City Economic Development initiative is a collaborative effort between the city's Economic Development Department and the independent Fairfax City Economic Development Authority. This partnership is mandated to promote economic activity within Fairfax. Their mission encompasses attracting businesses to the city, developing programs that enhance connectivity between businesses, residents, and visitors, and creating innovative strategies to establish Fairfax as a favorable location for business creation, growth, and scaling.

As one of the founding members of the Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance, Fairfax City Economic Development aims to catalyze local economic growth and ensure a vibrant future for its business landscape. For further insight into Fairfax City’s economic initiatives, visit gofairfaxcity.com.