Ryan has an extensive background in economic development, community design and public finance. Ryan most recently served as the first Executive Director for Housing Next leading efforts in Ottawa County, The City of Grand Rapids and the expansion into Kent County. He previously worked for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and is a certified planner and economic development finance professional. He has more than 15 years of experience supporting local governments with technical assistance and best practice implementation through planning, zoning, process improvement and the use of financial tools to create economically vibrant communities. Ryan has a master’s degree in design thinking from Kendall College of Art and Design and a bachelor’s degree in community development from Grand Valley State University.
