Jim Thompson

Jim Thompson is the City Manager of Scottsdale, Arizona, a position he has held since January 9, 2017. He has over 35 years of experience in public administration, having previously worked in various local government roles in Tucson, Casa Grande, Bothell, Bullhead City, and Sterling.12 Thompson also serves on the Arizona State Personnel Board and has been an adjunct professor at Arizona State University’s Department of Public Affairs since 2011.2

Thompson initially retired from his role as city manager in October 2022 due to Arizona State Retirement System rules but continued to work on a contractual basis before being reappointed as a regular city employee in October 2023.1 His current annual salary is $375,000, making him the highest-paid municipal employee in the Valley.1 Recently, Thompson announced his resignation effective December 2024, as he plans to take a position in Colorado.34