Joshua Jefferson serves as the Deputy Secretary of Business Development for the Kansas Department of Commerce. He is responsible for business recruitment and in-state business development, driving growth and prosperity for the state. He spearheads strategic initiatives that foster a business-friendly environment, forges partnerships with key stakeholders, and attracts investments that drive job creation and private sector capital investment.

Jefferson is an accomplished professional in economic development, commercial real estate, aviation management and workforce development. With more than 17 years of experience, Joshua was a driving force in shaping the economic landscape in the Greater Phoenix Metro, where he most recently served as Economic Development Program Manager for the city of Tempe, Arizona. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Urban Real Estate Planning at Arizona State University.