Jessica Rogers, currently serving as assistant city manager in Tomball, Texas, has been selected to lead Fort Worth’s Economic Development Department starting September 15. Her appointment was announced by City Manager Jay Chapa, who praised her leadership abilities and accomplishments in regional economic advancement. “Jessica’s demonstrated expertise and consistent success in economic development position her perfectly to help Fort Worth meet its bold economic targets,” Chapa stated. “We anticipate significant contributions from her as she works to expand our local economy and strengthen community support systems.”
In her current role, Rogers manages a range of operational divisions and spearheads strategic planning efforts. Prior to her position in Tomball, she served as economic development director for Denton, where she led major urban revitalization initiatives, designed creative incentive frameworks, formulated a long-term economic strategy, and deepened collaboration between public institutions and private enterprises to promote lasting expansion.
The city of Fort Worth highlighted that Rogers will oversee the development and execution of strategies aimed at attracting new businesses, retaining existing ones, advancing workforce training programs, supporting small enterprises, and cultivating a dynamic, inclusive economic environment. She will also collaborate closely with the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership to align efforts with the city’s vision for sustained economic health.
“I’m eager to join Fort Worth’s dedicated team and begin working alongside the Economic Development Partnership and other stakeholders to stimulate business expansion, draw new capital into the city, and enhance overall economic resilience,” Rogers said. “Fort Worth already excels in strategic growth and economic innovation, and I’m ready to build on that strong foundation.”
Earlier in her career, Rogers held leadership roles with the city of Dickinson in Texas and the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation in Indiana, further broadening her experience in municipal economic planning and implementation.
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New Director Named for Fort Worth Economic Development
Jessica Rogers, the assistant city manager of Tomball, Texas, has been appointed as the next director of the Economic Development Department of the city of Fort Worth, effective Sept. 15. n n“Jessica’s proven leadership and track record in economic development make her the ideal choice to help Fort Worth achieve its ambitious goals,” Fort Worth City Manager Jay Chapa said in a statement. “We look forward to seeing the impact she will have in growing our economy and supporting our community.” n nIn Tomball, Rogers oversees multiple operational areas and strategic initiatives. n nFormerly director of economic development in Denton n nRogers brings extensive experience in fostering business growth, attracting new investment and enhancing community vitality, the city of Fort Worth said. Before her job 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. n nRogers will lead Fort Worth’s economic development strategy, focusing on business recruitment and retention, workforce development, small business development, and creating a vibrant and diverse economy, the city said. She’ll also work closely with the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership to advance the city’s vision for long-term prosperity. n n“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 in a statement. “Fort Worth already has an excellent track record in creating economic development and smart growth, and I am ready to get started to further that vital work.” n nRogers has also held roles with the city of Dickinson, Texas, and the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation in Indiana. n nDon’t miss what’s next. Subscribe to Dallas Innovates. n nTrack Dallas-Fort Worth’s business and innovation landscape with our curated news in your inbox Tuesday-Thursday.