The Office of the City Representative and Director of Commerce was established in 1951 under the City Charter, which designated the City Representative as the Director of Commerce and a member of the Mayor's Cabinet.

The Office of the City Representative for Ceremonial & Special Events is responsible for developing and promoting events to attract commerce, visitors, and new residents to the City of Philadelphia as well as improving the quality of life for people currently residing in the city and region.

The duties of the City Representative have been assigned to the Office of the Deputy City Representative for Ceremonial & Events and the Deputy Office of the City Representative for Arts and Culture.