Leah Powell and Ryan Peters have been promoted to Deputy City Manager positions at the City of Chandler, according to an announcement by Acting City Manager John Pombier. Both Powell and Peters are existing employees of the city.
“Both Leah and Ryan are instrumental to Chandler’s success and this role will expand their opportunities to contribute to our community,“ said Chandler Acting City Manager John Pombier. “As Deputy City Manager, they will address some of the most complex issues facing Chandler, including the future development of housing and infrastructure projects.”
Powell has worked for the city since 1996. She previously spent five years as an Assistant to the City Manager before moving to lead the Neighborhood Resources Department in 2017. In her current role, she oversees code enforcement, neighborhood preservation, and engagement programs. Powell has also managed public housing initiatives, including a 157-unit affordable housing complex expected to open in late 2026. Her responsibilities have included managing community development programs and expanding services related to homelessness prevention.
Before joining Chandler, Powell worked for 11 years with the City of Albuquerque in New Mexico, where she coordinated beautification efforts and youth recreational activities.
Peters joined Chandler in 2016 as its lobbyist for legislative affairs. Since 2021 he has served as Strategic Initiatives Director. He played a role in securing more than $100 million in grants and federal or regional funding for transportation infrastructure projects such as roadways, water systems, and transit services. Peters has negotiated agreements aimed at improving city infrastructure and connectivity.
His work includes overseeing implementation of transit programs like Chandler Flex and managing updates to city codes regarding private utility infrastructure. Prior to his time in Chandler, Peters held roles in legislative affairs with several organizations including the League of Arizona Cities and Towns, City of Glendale, Arizona State House of Representatives, and Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The deputy city manager position reports directly to the city manager and is responsible for assisting with administration as well as day-to-day operations across municipal departments.
