Jeanine Jerkovic, CEcD, is the Economic Development Director for the City of Surprise, Arizona, where she helped launch the West Valley’s first business incubator in 2010 and led a nationally recognized resident engagement campaign that not only recruited a Costco but catalyzed a wave of transformative retail growth. With over 20 years of experience spanning municipal leadership, international trade, and public-private partnerships, Jeanine is known for pairing strategic vision with creative hustle. Her earlier roles include Trade Commissioner for the Canadian Consulate in Phoenix and Vice President of International Programs at the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, where she influenced statewide policy and led high-impact global business initiatives.

A proud Arizona State University graduate (Barrett Honors College and summa cum laude), Jeanine also holds a master’s degree with distinction from the London School of Economics in the UK. She’s a past “Economic Developer of the Year” and a certified economic development professional (CEcD). Outside of work, Jeanine finds joy in baking elaborate cakes, watching UFC fight nights, and rocking out to everything from 80’s anthems to heavy metal. She's equally comfortable in a boardroom, on a factory floor, or onstage in front of thousands—always looking for the next spark of opportunity.