Gilbert, Arizona Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gilbert, Arizona has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, technology, communications, human resources, and executive leadership.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Gilbert, Arizona provides essential government services, fostering community development and operational efficiency for its residents.

Leadership Roles at Gilbert, Arizona

  • Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer - Hakon Johanson
  • President - Lisa Rigler
  • Deputy Chief Technology Officer - Sarah VanSlyke
  • Chief Communications Officer - Kandice Kwan
  • Deputy Chief People Officer, Data & Operations - Kristen Drew
  • Interim Deputy Chief People Officer - Melissa Boillot
  • Hakon Johanson - Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer

    Hakon Johanson, the Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer at Gilbert, Arizona, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the city. This leadership role involves managing the city's budget, overseeing accounting practices, and ensuring financial compliance with state and federal regulations. Johanson's oversight extends to financial planning, revenue forecasting, and the efficient allocation of public funds to support essential city services like business licenses and court services. By implementing robust financial controls and driving fiscal responsibility, Hakon Johanson ensures the long-term economic health and stability of Gilbert, Arizona, directly impacting the delivery of all municipal functions and services.
    Hakon Johanson

    Lisa Rigler - President

    Lisa Rigler, the President at Gilbert, Arizona, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the city's overall governance and service delivery. This primary leadership role involves guiding the city's administration, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, and ensuring the effective execution of public services such as business licenses and court services. Rigler's mandate includes championing initiatives that enhance community well-being and operational excellence across all municipal functions. By setting the vision and overseeing strategic planning, Lisa Rigler drives the continued development and efficient operation of Gilbert, Arizona, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of its residents and businesses.
    Lisa Rigler

    Sarah VanSlyke - Deputy Chief Technology Officer

    Sarah VanSlyke, the Deputy Chief Technology Officer at Gilbert, Arizona, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the city's technology infrastructure. This role focuses on enhancing digital services, managing IT systems, and ensuring the security and reliability of the city's technological assets. VanSlyke contributes to initiatives that improve internal operational efficiency and the delivery of public-facing digital services, such as online utility payments and court access. By collaborating with various departments, Sarah VanSlyke helps drive technological innovation to better serve the residents and businesses of Gilbert, Arizona, ensuring that technology effectively supports the city's governmental functions and service provision.

    Kandice Kwan - Chief Communications Officer

    Kandice Kwan, the Chief Communications Officer at Gilbert, Arizona, leads all public relations, media engagement, and internal communications strategies for the city government. This executive function involves shaping the city's public image, managing crisis communications, and ensuring transparent information flow to residents and stakeholders. Kwan directs efforts to articulate the value and impact of municipal services, including business licensing and court services, to the broader community. By fostering strong relationships with media outlets and the public, Kandice Kwan ensures that Gilbert, Arizona's governmental initiatives and operational updates are effectively communicated, promoting civic engagement and public trust.
    Kandice Kwan

    Kristen Drew - Deputy Chief People Officer, Data & Operations

    Kristen Drew, the Deputy Chief People Officer, Data & Operations at Gilbert, Arizona, oversees critical human resources functions, focusing on data-driven insights and operational efficiency within the workforce. This leadership position involves managing employee relations, talent acquisition, and the development of HR policies that support the city's operational needs. Drew's responsibilities include leveraging data analytics to optimize staffing, improve employee performance, and ensure compliance with labor laws across all city departments. By enhancing HR operations and workforce management, Kristen D. ensures that Gilbert, Arizona maintains a skilled and effective public service team to deliver essential government services.

    Melissa Boillot - Interim Deputy Chief People Officer

    Melissa Boillot, the Interim Deputy Chief People Officer at Gilbert, Arizona, provides critical support and leadership within the human resources department during a transitional period. This role focuses on maintaining the continuity of HR operations, including employee support, recruitment processes, and policy implementation, ensuring that essential personnel functions continue without disruption. Boillot works to uphold the city's commitment to its workforce while contributing to strategic HR initiatives. By managing key people operations, Melissa Boillot ensures that Gilbert, Arizona's government continues to effectively support its employees and deliver vital public services.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gilbert, Arizona Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gilbert, Arizona?
    Gilbert, Arizona is led by Hakon Johanson (Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Lisa Rigler (President) and Sarah VanSlyke (Deputy Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Gilbert, Arizona’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gilbert, Arizona includes leaders such as Hakon Johanson (Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer), Lisa Rigler (President), Sarah VanSlyke (Deputy Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gilbert, Arizona have?
    Gilbert, Arizona has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gilbert, Arizona’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gilbert, Arizona includes roles such as Director, Finance Management Services & Chief Financial Officer, President, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, Chief Communications Officer, Deputy Chief People Officer, Data & Operations.