Ted Maxwell 

2024 Greater Tucson Leadership Man of the Year

By Rodney Campbell

It’s not easy to catch Ted Maxwell off guard. But that’s what happened to the Southern Arizona Leadership Council president when he learned he was being recognized as Greater Tucson Leadership Man of the Year.

Maxwell was holding a meeting at the SALC offices with his board chair and COO when representatives from Greater Tucson Leadership, accompanied by a few friends and his wife, burst into the session to deliver the news.

It was unexpected and Maxwell’s reaction showed.

“My wife said it was the first time she’s seen me speechless,” he said.

The Tucson Man of the Year Award is presented annually to a person who has distinguished himself for active support of community projects that demonstrate excellence in leadership and is a source of positive influence and inspiration.

From a decorated military career to his role with SALC to his many volunteer activities across the region, Maxwell is a worthy recipient.

“I am very honored and touched,” he said. “It’s not often that people reach out and recognize your efforts to improve the community and make it a better place for everyone.”

Maxwell served 15 years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force, mainly flying the F-16 at several bases throughout the world. When he decided to step away, he wanted to keep flying full time and had two opportunities to relocate. The offer to join the Arizona Air National Guard came from the 162nd Fighter Wing at Tucson International Airport just before one from Buckley Air Force Base near Denver.

“One of the best decisions in my life,” he said.

He was planning to fly for five more years to reach 20 but instead served another 19 years. He retired as the commander of the Arizona Air National Guard as a major general in 2018 after nearly 34 years of service. A California native, Maxwell had found Tucson to his liking.

“I thought I would be here five years and retire,” said Maxwell, who joined the National Guard in 1999. “Tucson is definitely home, and I wouldn’t consider living anywhere else.”

He said his military service gave him the chance to work with elected officials and spurred his interest in partnering with local, state and national leaders.

“I appreciate my time and experiences commanding in the Guard,” he said. “It gave me a chance to learn more about leadership and to see how policy decisions are made.”

Maxwell was hired as SALC VP in 2013 and became president and CEO in 2018. Shelley Watson served as his VP until retiring last year and taking on consulting work for the organization. Watson said Maxwell always makes people feel valued and ensures that their opinions are considered.

“In my experience as Ted’s colleague, I have observed that his considerable leadership skills stem from collaboration and respect,” Watson said. “Ted is very smart and a gifted problem solver, and he always wants to hear and learn from others. He recognizes that everyone has a story to tell and wisdom to impart and is interested in learning where someone is coming from and how their life experiences have shaped their opinions.”

SALC’s membership consists of leaders from across varied industries in Southern Arizona. Maxwell believes it’s the perfect atmosphere for members to work together for the betterment of the community.

“The thing that I like about business leaders is that they’re always looking for the best solution,” Maxwell said. “What hinders our region is being unable to come together with collaborative solutions. People have strong opinions, but the best solution is often somewhere in between.”

The organization benefits from having Maxwell in charge because he understands and cares about the region, Sundt Construction VP and Regional Director Ian McDowell said.

“Ted is passionate about issues affecting Southern Arizona,” said McDowell, co-chair of SALC’s Infrastructure Committee. “He is a source of information and guidance for everyone and does a particularly good job with those of us who are engaged in SALC.”

Leading the leaders at SALC is a perfect fit for Maxwell. Through his job and engagement in the community, he recognizes the opportunities and quality of life that make Southern Arizona a great place to live.

“I think the people and region have unlimited potential,” he said. “All we need is for more people to get engaged and involved and make a difference.”

Photo by Chris Mooney