Aaron DeJong has been promoted to director of economic development for the city of Urbandale, the city announced.

DeJong joined the city staff in July 2019 as assistant economic developer. During his time with the city, he has helped move forward the development of the Urban Loop area by facilitating several development agreements for new and expanding business investments, according to a news release. He also helped create the new Downtown Urbandale Assistance Policy to encourage business investments along Douglas Avenue.

DeJong, whose annual salary is now $123,892, began his new role on Jan. 1.

Curtis Brown will transition from the dual role of economic development director and assistant city manager — a position he has held since 2018 — to full-time work within the city manager’s office. Brown began his position as assistant city manager on Jan. 1. His annual salary is $163,884.

“We are thrilled to have Aaron step into this leadership role and continue the important work of economic development in our city,” A.J. Johnson, Urbandale city manager, said in a prepared statement. “At the same time, the work of the City Manager’s Office continues to grow and Curtis’ full-time involvement with this office will be very valuable.”

DeJong previously was director of economic development for the city of Louisville, Colo., and also worked in Dubuque’s economic development department. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a master’s degree from the University of Iowa. He is a member of Professional Developers of Iowa and the Iowa Commercial Real Estate Association and serves on the State of Iowa Health Facilities Council.

Read more: A Closer Look: Aaron DeJong