City of Vista Appoints Aaron Schulze as Economic Development Manager

The City of Vista has appointed Aaron Schulze as its new Economic Development Manager, effective March 2, 2026. Schulze brings more than 20 years of economic development experience working with the cities of Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove and Orange. Schulze replaces former Economic Development Director Larry Vaupel, who retired in December 2025.

Throughout his career, Schulze has led efforts in downtown business development, hotel development, business retention, and business expansion. He has built a strong reputation for fostering public-private partnerships, supporting local entrepreneurs, and attracting new investment to strengthen local economies.

Schulze holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton. He is multilingual and fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, and looks forward to expanding outreach to Vista’s Spanish-speaking business community.

“It is truly an honor to join the City of Vista and become part of such a dedicated and forward-thinking team,” said Schulze. “Vista has tremendous opportunity for continued growth and investment. I look forward to working closely with our local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and the development community to strengthen our economic base and support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents and create lasting opportunity.”

Schulze is an active member of the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) and the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). In 2024, he was awarded the Chamber Champion Award by the Orange Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his leadership and partnership with the business community. Outside of his professional work, Schulze is an Eagle Scout and has volunteered for more than 20 years as a Scoutmaster and youth mentor.

 City Manager John Conley said Schulze’s depth of experience will be a valuable asset to Vista.

“Aaron brings more than two decades of hands-on economic development experience across multiple Southern California cities, with a proven track record in downtown revitalization, hotel recruitment, business retention, and strategic expansion,” said Conley. “His expertise, regional relationships, and ability to work collaboratively with the private sector position Vista well as we continue to attract investment, support our existing businesses, and advance thoughtful, sustainable growth throughout the community.”

As Economic Development Manager, Schulze will lead the City’s efforts to attract and retain businesses, support commercial development, and strengthen partnerships that drive long-term economic vitality in Vista.

For more information about the City of Vista’s Economic Development Division, visit vista.gov/economicdevelopment.