Cheryl Lombard, former Valley Partnership President/CEO, named CEO of NAIOP Arizona
News & UpdatesPHOENIX, ARIZ. (July 17, 2025) – The Arizona Chapter of NAIOP, the leading organization for commercial real estate development and advocacy in the state, announced today the appointment of Cheryl Lombard as its new CEO. Lombard will officially assume the role on September 1, bringing with her a distinguished track record of leadership, policy expertise, industry insight, and Arizona relationships.
As CEO, Lombard will spearhead the chapter’s strategic initiatives, drive member engagement, and serve as the primary liaison with policymakers, economic development groups, and business leaders. Her leadership comes at a pivotal moment when Arizona is experiencing transformative growth in commercial real estate, and NAIOP Arizona is positioning to expand its influence and elevate its mission.
Lombard is nationally recognized as a tireless and experienced advocate for economic development and responsible growth. Her career includes more than two decades of experience navigating the intersection of real estate, government affairs, and public policy. Most recently, Lombard served in Washington, D.C., where she led the power infrastructure and minerals work at ClearPath, a conservative energy think tank. This is in addition to federal and state permitting reform efforts. Lombard was formerly President and CEO of Valley Partnership from 2015 until 2023, where she elevated the organization’s profile and impact through collaboration, strategic events, and effective advocacy on water and transportation.
“I’m thrilled to return to Arizona and lead NAIOP at such a pivotal time for our state,” Lombard said. “As Arizona experiences dynamic growth and change, it’s critical that our industry not only has a seat at the table but leads the conversation on key issues like energy, water, and permitting. NAIOP Arizona has built a strong reputation for advocacy and impact, and I look forward to expanding that influence, strengthening our presence across all levels of government, and advancing policies that drive Arizona’s economic success.”
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, membership, and our sponsors, we could not be more thrilled to welcome Cheryl to lead NAIOP Arizona,” said Board Chair Phil Breidenbach, Senior Executive Vice President at Colliers. “Cheryl’s experience, energy, and passion for key issues impacting commercial real estate align strongly with NAIOPAZ’s mission and the goals of our members. Her leadership is what NAIOP needs to advance our chapter, our sponsors’ agendas and our industry as a whole.”
As CEO, Lombard will work closely with the NAIOP Arizona Board of Directors to implement a new long-range strategic plan, expand sponsorship engagement, enhance the success of flagship events and advance the chapter’s position as a leading voice for commercial real estate in the state.
Lombard succeeds Suzanne Kinney in this role and her appointment is the result of an extensive executive search led by the NAIOP Arizona Board of Directors. “We are grateful for Suzanne’s leadership of our chapter, her work at NAIOP made a difference, she will be missed,” Breidenbach said.
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