Joseph Yuhas

Joe Yuhas has been a participant in the public policy and political arena for four decades with a body of work as a public affairs consultant, state cabinet level administrator, industry advocate, and as an elected official. Throughout his career, his primary focus has been community and economic development, and job creation.

He is the Principal of TenTwenty5 Public Affairs, providing strategic government affairs, public policy, communications, and stakeholder engagement programs to over 75 Fortune 500 companies and local brands, public agencies, non-profit organizations, and community causes.

He previously served as CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association, advocating on behalf of the industry interests of the nation’s largest private sector employer. His work brought him to the attention of the Governor-elect, who appointed him to provide day-to-day guidance of the Arizona Department of Commerce where he collaborated with business leaders, local officials, and economic development professionals to encourage capital investment and job creation.

Prior to relocating to the Southwest, Joe served in elected public office in his native state of New Jersey, gaining foundational public policy experience and advocacy skills. He was the youngest person ever elected to the governing body of a capital city when he was elected at the age of 21 to the Trenton City Council. Following his tenure at City Hall, he advanced to the Mercer County Board of Commissioners and the New Jersey State Legislature.

Joe is a member of the Board of Directors of the Hopi Tribe Economic Development Corporation, appointed by the Hopi Tribal Council to oversee the operation of current tribal enterprises in the commercial real estate, hospitality, housing, and tourism sectors while also exploring and pursuing future ventures.

Joe earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Rider University in Lawrenceville, NJ. He has been honored by The Human Rights Campaign, Arizona Society of Association Executives, Fiesta Bowl, Greater Flagstaff Economic Council, Arizona Tourism Alliance, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, and numerous other organizations for his work and contributions. He was awarded a rare “Game Ball’ by the Arizona Cardinals, an honor typically reserved for on-field achievements of NFL players. Joe is an inductee of the Arizona Tourism Hall of Fame.