Luis Portillo joins San Bernardino as Economic Development Director

Luis Portillo has been appointed as Economic Development Director for the City of San Bernardino.

Portillo has more than 20 years of experience in economic development, regional partnerships, public policy and corporate affairs, Portillo’s background includes leadership roles with regional economic partnership organizations, state government and the private sector, with a focus on strengthening business climates, building public-private partnerships and advancing long-term economic competitiveness.

“Luis brings a record of collaboration, strategic leadership and economic development experience that will be valuable as San Bernardino continues to build on its momentum,” said City Manager Eric Levitt. “His understanding of the Inland Empire, relationships with regional partners and track record of helping businesses will support the City’s efforts to create jobs, attract investment and revitalize key areas of San Bernardino.”

Portillo most recently served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership (SGVEP), where he oversaw regional strategy and stakeholder engagement across 31 cities. At SGVEP, Portillo launched the San Gabriel Valley Business City Connect program, which brought together city leaders, businesses and developers to explore development opportunities and strengthen regional collaboration.

Portillo has also served as the Director of Public Policy for the Inland Empire Economic Partnership, where he worked with legislators on state and federal proposals affecting Inland Empire businesses. He helped establish the Inland Empire Chamber Alliance, bringing together over 20 chambers of commerce from San Bernardino and Riverside counties to advance advocacy, business retention and economic development priorities in the region.

“I am honored to join the City of San Bernardino and contribute to a community with such tremendous assets and opportunity,” Portillo said. “San Bernardino is positioned for growth, with its transportation infrastructure, workforce, and major redevelopment opportunities. I look forward to working with the Mayor and City Council, City leadership, businesses, developers, residents and regional partners to advance investment, job creation and the local economy.”

Portillo began his new role on July 6, 2026.