PHILADELPHIA — Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced today that Director of Commerce Alba Martinez will leave her position with the City of Philadelphia effective May 1, 2025. She will serve fully as Director until that date in May.

Director Martinez is leaving to pursue a unique opportunity — producing her original musical, La Guagua 47, set to premiere in 2026 in Philadelphia.

“Alba Martinez has been a true partner in driving our economic opportunity agenda in Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Her dedication and creativity have laid a strong foundation for inclusive growth throughout our city and its many neighborhoods. I have known and worked with Alba for a long time, and I am confident she will continue to be a passionate advocate for our vision of a Philadelphia that is inclusive, energetic and open for business every day.”

“Serving as Mayor Parker’s Director of Commerce has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Alba Martinez, Director, Department of Commerce. “I am proud of the foundation we’ve built together – from the Small Business Catalyst Fund to the Philly Biz Hub, the expansion of PHL Taking Care of Business, the launch of our Business Navigator team, and more. I look forward to staying involved as a member of the city’s business community and a champion of Mayor Parker’s agenda to build a more equitable and prosperous One Philly for all.” 

The administration will provide further updates on a transition at the Commerce Department in the near future, including planning for a comprehensive search.