Provo City continues to operate under the leadership of Cody Hill as Economic Development Division Director, following an extensive recruitment process that concluded with his appointment to oversee the city's growth and business revitalization efforts.
Hill's Professional Background
The City of Provo announced on March 25, 2025, that Hill was appointed to the role of Economic Development Division Director after a thorough search for new leadership. The appointment followed a period of recruitment aimed at finding an individual with deep expertise in public administration and community building.
Hill, who resides in Provo with his wife, Berkeley Magleby, and their four children—James, Frances, Johannes, and Samwise—brought significant regional experience to the position. His professional background includes serving as a consultant for various Utah local governments, ranging from Cache County to Kane County.
Experience in Utah Municipalities
Before joining the Provo leadership team, Hill served in Midvale City. In early 2020, he took on the role of Redevelopment Agency Manager for Midvale, and he later transitioned into the position of Economic Development Manager. During his tenure in Midvale, he was noted for playing a critical role in fostering economic growth and revitalization within that municipality.
Hill's educational foundation includes studies in European Studies and German at Brigham Young University (BYU). His early career path also included working at NuSkin’s call center located in East Bay, teaching at the Missionary Training Center, and completing an internship at the U.S. Embassy in Vienna, which the city noted helped ignite his passion for public service.
City Leadership Endorsements
During the announcement of his hiring, Provo Development Services Director Bill Peperone expressed high expectations for Hill's impact on the city. Peperone stated that Hill's ability to create opportunities for businesses and foster strategic partnerships would serve as an invaluable addition to the city team and enhance Provo's economic vibrancy.
Mayor Michelle Kaufusi also endorsed the appointment, stating that Hill possesses proven experience in growing communities. The Mayor noted that his leadership would be forward-looking, specifically regarding the fostering of sustainable development, the strengthening of the local economy, and the enhancement of business opportunities.
Philosophy and Office Operations
Hill's approach to his role emphasizes community-centric development. He has stated that economic development involves more than just managing sales generation and increasing property values, asserting that the field is truly about people, placemaking, and community building.
This philosophy is applied through the Economic Development Division, which maintains its physical office at 445 W Center St, Suite 200, Provo, Utah. The division operates Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Current Division Status
As of July 2026, the Economic Development Division remains a core component of Provo's municipal structure, providing contact information and staff directories for residents and business owners seeking to engage with the city's growth initiatives.
