New Merced economic development manager brings 15 years of local experience to role
.JPG "West Main Street in downtown Merced, Calif., on Thursday, May 7, 2020.")
Merced has a new leader to helm its economic development team, city leaders announced Friday.
Maria Mendoza kicked off her role as economic development manager Monday, after ascending through the city’s ranks over the last 15 years.
“Maria’s understanding of the city, both in commercial and industrial development, has been key to our growing successes in these areas. We are confident of her ability to manage the economic development of our City,” City Manager Stephanie Dietz said in a news release.
Mendoza first joined the Merced insurance department in 2007, and was then promoted to redevelopment technician the next year, the release said. She stepped into the role of development associate in 2011.
Now, as manager of the economic development department, Mendoza will oversee the planning and implementation of the city’s economic development programs. That includes attracting and retaining businesses, managing city properties and real estate transactions, and representing the city of Merced in community organizations and other government agencies.
Mendoza will report to Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero in her new role.
“Maria has been a cornerstone of our economic development efforts over the past 12 years,” Quintero said. “Her demonstrated ability to forge relationships within the development industry made her the ideal choice to lead our economic development team.”
Mendoza also serves on Team California’s Board of Directors and is active with Innovating Commerce Serving Communities, the Site Selectors Guild and the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors.
Mendoza is most interested in playing a pivotal role in the continued growth of Merced, according to the release. Mendoza said she looks forward to promoting the city’s economic development goals and expanding interest from prospective developers and businesses.
“Understanding the opportunities here in Merced is key,” said Mendoza. “Part of what makes our community special are the business owners who choose to stake their livelihoods here.”
This story was originally published March 25, 2022 at 12:43 PM.
