City Names Michael “Mac” Cummins Director of Austin Economic Development

AUSTIN, TX – The City of Austin has appointed Michael “Mac” Cummins as the next Director of Austin Economic Development, bringing a seasoned executive with 27 years of municipal leadership experience to help guide the department’s work supporting businesses, workers, entrepreneurs, creatives, and community partners across Austin. Cummins will officially begin his role on July 27, 2026. 

Cummins has led major economic development, planning, and community investment efforts in fast-growing cities and regions across the country. His background includes business retention and expansion, transit-oriented development, urban renewal districts, tax increment financing, affordable housing financial strategies, tourism and convention planning, capital improvements, permitting and entitlement processes, and public-private partnerships. 

“We are excited about Mac’s diverse experience in economic development and the energy he will bring to the City of Austin,” said Dr. Eric A. Johnson, Assistant City Manager. “His background and expertise position him well to help us move the City forward, and we look forward to introducing him to the community.” 

Most recently, Cummins served as Chief Executive Officer of the Reston Association in Reston, Virginia, where he oversaw municipal-style services and major functions including finance, human resources, permitting and design review, code enforcement, parks and recreation, communications, maintenance and facilities management, land use planning, and capital improvement programming. During his tenure, he also served on the Board of Directors for the Reston Chamber of Commerce. 

Before his role in Reston, Cummins served as Community Development Director for the City of Bellevue, Washington, one of the nation’s fastest-growing technology hubs. In Bellevue, he helped guide significant economic growth, including the creation of a new economic development strategic plan, implementation of six light rail stations, and millions of square feet of new development. He also held planning and development leadership roles in Westminster, Colorado; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Seal Beach, California. 

“I’m very excited to move to Austin and work with the community to further advance the economic profile nationally and internationally,” says Michael Cummins.  

Cummins holds two master’s degrees from the University of Southern California in Public Administration and Urban Planning, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and Management. He is certified through the American Institute of Certified Planners and is a member of the International City/County Management Association and several other professional planning and development organizations. 

Austin Economic Development works to help Austin’s local economy adapt, grow, and create opportunity through programs and services focused on small business, workforce development, business expansion, community technology, youth initiatives, and economic opportunity. For more information about Austin Economic Development, visit AustinTexas.gov/EDD. 

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About Austin Economic Development  
Austin Economic Development supports business growth, creative industries, and local communities. These programs build an equitable, sustainable economy to improve the lives of all Austin residents. To learn more, subscribe to our newsletter or connect with us @AustinEconDev on Facebook, @AustinEconDev on Instagram, and @AustinEconDev on YouTube.