Director of International Bussiness Development, Stephane Frijia works with businesses and international stakeholders to position the region as a global leader for foreign direct investment and trade. He provides support to international companies as they expand in to the region and manages foreign based contractors for business development in key target markets. Stephane is a strong advocate for a more globally fluent and internationally diverse local economy; and through his work encourages others to do the same.
In his previous role, Stephane served as the project manager in the development of the Phoenix Metro Export Plan - a project developed under the Brookings Institution and JPMorgan Chase Global Cities Initiative. He also worked to develop and maintain GPEC's market intelligence and Corporate 100 model as best in class, in coordination with partner's communities and organizations. He was responsible for supporting efforts in developing and catalyzing industry-led research and development centers.
Stephane is the past chair and current steering committee member for the Arizone Chapter of the Aerospace and Defense Forum, a community of over 900 industry senior executives and professionals.
Prior to joining GPEC in 2011, Stephane served as a researcher at the Decision Center for a Desert city(DCDC) at Arizone State University. His published work contributed to advance scientific understanding of environmental decision making under conditions of uncertainty.
Additionally, Stephane has worked as a professional consultant for numerous airports and cities around the country, providing assistance with air service development, planning and engineering,operational procedures, project management and actions to enhance the value of the airport.
Stephane earned a master's degree in urban and environmental planning and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical management technology from Arizone State University. Originally from Italy,Stephane currently resides in Phoenix with his wife. He is fluent in Italian, French and English.