The League of Arizona Cities & Towns has chosen René Guillen as its new Executive Director, succeeding longtime leader Tom Belshe, who is retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service to Arizona municipalities.
Guillen, who has served as the League’s Deputy Director since 2020, has nearly two decades of experience in state and local government, transportation, public policy, and municipal advocacy. In his new role, Guillen will lead the League’s mission to represent Arizona’s 92 cities and towns at the State Capitol.
“I’m honored to lead an organization that has been such a vital voice for Arizona’s local governments,” Guillen said. “Cities and towns are where innovation happens first. My goal is to strengthen the partnership between municipal leaders and state policymakers so that communities of every size – from our largest metros to our smallest rural towns – have the tools and support they need to thrive.”
Guillen began his career at the Arizona House of Representatives, where he worked on policy and research staff before joining the League of Arizona Cities and Towns in 2010 as Legislative Director. He later served as Policy Advisor for Government and Transportation for Gov. Doug Ducey and as Director of Intergovernmental Relations for the Town of Gilbert before returning to the League as Deputy Director.
“René has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Arizona’s municipalities,” said Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, League President. “His experience, relationships and dedication to service make him the right leader to guide the League into its next chapter.”
As Executive Director, Guillen will pursue opportunities to bring value to cities and towns, champion the positive economic and cultural impacts for Arizona and educate policymakers on the role of municipalities to drive collaboration and protect local decision making.