Kristin Guild

Kristin Guild has extensive work experience in the field of planning and economic development. Kristin currently holds the position of Director, Business Bridge at the GREATER MSP Partnership. Prior to this role, they worked at the City of Saint Paul, where they served as Deputy Director, Planning and Economic Development from August 2015 to July 2021. In addition to overseeing planning, zoning, housing, and economic development, they managed a team of 75 staff and large budgets for operating and capital expenses. Kristin also served as Interim Director, Department of Planning and Economic Development from August 2019 to August 2020, leading a successful transition to remote work during the pandemic and implementing an emergency grant program for those affected by COVID-19. Before joining the City of Saint Paul, Kristin worked at the City of Minneapolis as Manager, Business Development from December 2005 to August 2015. In this role, they were responsible for supporting business investment and growth through various tools and programs and received excellence awards for their achievements. Prior to that, they held positions at the City of New York as Team Leader, City Planning and City Planner, and at Warren County, NY as a Senior Planner. Kristin began their career as a Historic Preservation Planner at BRW, Inc. in 1994.

Kristin Guild has a solid education background in the field of urban planning and development. Kristin obtained their Bachelor of Arts degree from Carleton College, completing their studies between 1988 and 1992. Later, from 1997 to 1999, they pursued their Masters of Regional Planning at Cornell University, specializing in City and Regional Planning.

In addition to their formal education, Kristin has also obtained several certifications throughout their career. In 2007, they earned the designation of Economic Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. Furthermore, in 2018, they completed the HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) management course offered by the National Community Development Association (NCDA). Most recently, in 2021, they have undertaken the Nonprofit Fundamentals series provided by the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.

Based on this information, Kristin Guild possesses a strong academic foundation and has shown a commitment to continuing education and professional development in their field.