Gilbert Selects Mario Paniagua as Next Town Manager

GILBERT, Ariz. - The Gilbert Town Council announces the selection of Mario Paniagua as the Gilbert's next Town Manager following a comprehensive and competitive national selection process. Paniagua officially assumes the role on June 1.

Paniagua currently serves as Assistant Town Manager for the Town of Gilbert, a position he has held for more than eight months. Prior to joining Gilbert, he spent more than 27 years with the City of Phoenix, including more than 10 years as Deputy City Manager. He also held roles as Budget and Research Director, City Clerk, Special Assistant to the City Council, and Human Resources Analyst with Phoenix.

As a former Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force, Paniagua brings more than 35 years of government experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Arizona State University and is a member of both the Arizona City/County Management Association (ACMA) and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).

"I am honored and invigorated by the Mayor and Council's trust in selecting me as Gilbert's Town Manager," said Mario Paniagua. "Gilbert is a place where nearly 300,000 residents experience the warmth and kindness of a small town. It's safe, attractive, and genuinely thriving. That's no accident. It takes intentional leadership, and I'm proud to be part of it. Gilbert's people are exceptional, and my focus as Town Manager is straightforward: support the team doing the work, collaborate diligently on the challenges ahead, and keep Gilbert prospering for residents, businesses, and visitors."

Throughout the selection process, Paniagua demonstrated strengths across multiple criteria evaluated by the Council:

"Mario brings exactly what Gilbert needs: steady hands, a sharp mind, and genuine care for the people he leads," said Gilbert Mayor Scott Anderson. "His deliberate, thoughtful approach stood out throughout this process and I'm confident Mario will be an exceptional Town Manager. I'm proud and excited to have him lead Gilbert into this next chapter."

The Town also recognizes the outstanding service of Dawn Prince, who has led Gilbert as Interim Town Manager during the five-month transition period. Prince has guided the organization with patience, transparency, and steady leadership at a critical moment for the community.

The Council also expressed appreciation to finalist Alison Zelms for her time and interest in Gilbert. Both candidates brought exceptional qualifications to the process.

Paniagua officially begins as Town Manager on June 1. In the coming weeks, the Town will share additional details about the transition and opportunities for the community to connect with its new Town Manager.