Arlington Economic Development Chief To Leave For Fairfax Co.

FAIRFAX, VA—A key figure behind Amazon's decision to locate its second headquarters in Arlington County is making a career change to a neighboring jurisdiction. Victor Hoskins will become the next president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority on Aug. 5.

Hoskins currently serves as the director of economic development for Arlington County, where he helped lead the effort for Amazon's headquarters. He was previously deputy mayor of planning and economic development in DC, which involved starting the development of City Center, the Wharf and Union Market.

Hoskins will succeed Gerald L. Gordon, who retired in late 2018. Gordon had been the president and CEO since 1987. A national search was conducted for Gordon's replacement.

"Fairfax County is well known for its pro-growth environment and its ability to attract, train and retain talented workers," said Hoskins in a statement. "With the backing of FCEDA’s excellent staff, I hope to do more of that with increased outreach in the U.S. and abroad, especially among young people. As always, I hope to work closely with my colleagues and friends in the region. I also plan to increase our use of research and digital communications to expand the county’s dynamic workforce, attract startups and grow existing businesses."

Although neighboring Arlington and Alexandria secured the Amazon headquarters and the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, respectively, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority wants to capitalize on Amazon's presence. It recently announced a $1 million program to attract and retain new talent and study what companies are doing to attract these workers.

The economic development authority is tasked with helping businesses start, expand and relocate in Fairfax County, which is already home to 10 Fortune 500 companies.