Brewer announces DES Director

Neil Young was named Director of the Arizona Department of Economic Security. By all accounts, this seems like a good hire. Release is below along with a few other news items related to the announcement.

Governor Jan Brewer Announces
Director of Department of Economic Security

PHOENIX - Arizona Governor Jan Brewer today named Neal Young as the Director of the Arizona Department of Economic Security.

“Mr. Young has numerous years of experience at DES and a strong understanding of the importance of efficiency in government which will serve the state well,” stated Brewer. “He is an extremely capable and highly respected public servant who will provide a unique skill set to this critically important position.”

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Young served the City of Phoenix as Assistant Housing Director, where he was involved in several public housing and capital improvement projects. Prior to that, he served as Lead Deputy Director and Assistant Human Services Director for the City of Phoenix, where he was primarily responsible for the programmatic divisions of the department, including the Youth Services Division and the Senior Services Division. During his time in this position he developed new service delivery models and strategic plans for programs for Phoenix youth and seniors.

Prior to his time with the City of Phoenix, Mr. Young worked for several years in state government. He spent 10 years serving at DES in various capacities, including Assistant Director of the Division of Children, Youth and Families and Deputy Assistant Director and Assistant Director of the Division of Business and Finance. Most recently, he worked as Associate Director of the Division of Business and Technology Services, serving as the Department’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Information Officer. Prior to his time with DES, Mr. Young managed the daily operations of the Tucson Office of the Arizona Auditor General. Serving as Financial Audit Senior and Manager, Mr. Young supervised staff in reviewing audits of various educational institutions, health plans and government entities.


Mr. Young received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Arizona State University, where he also earned his Masters in Business Administration.

“I would also like to recognize Acting Director Linda Blessing for her outstanding work and accomplishments throughout her service as my Interim Director of DES, and indeed throughout her career as a public servant,” said Brewer. “I deeply appreciate Dr. Blessing’s willingness to graciously serve temporarily throughout this transition process. Her experience and steady leadership was a calming and engaging force at the Department in an extremely turbulent budget period.”

###

Full Release Here.