The housing nonprofit Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, which develops homes targeted for affordability, has named a new executive.
Chief executive Martina Guilfoil, who has led the organization since 2013, is set to retire at the end of February.
The organization’s board chose Christopher Thompson, chief executive of the West Central Missouri Action Agency and the community development organization New Growth, as its new leader. Those agencies run programs that provide services including housing assistance, food security and workforce development.
Thompson was previously a commercial real estate attorney, according to a news release, and holds a law degree and master’s degree in dispute resolution.
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“I am truly honored to be the next CEO of this incredible organization with its rich history and strong legacy of working toward a more inclusive, prosperous and vibrant Chattanooga,” Thompson said in the release.
He said he looks forward to building on the groundwork laid by Guilfoil and collaborating with other organizations, the city, builders and developers.
In over a decade with the organization, Guilfoil has led initiatives aimed at investing in housing to serve lower- and middle-income Chattanoogans.
That includes building smaller homes or multi-unit buildings that fill in the “missing middle” between large apartment complexes and single-family houses.
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In addition to developing housing, the organization also provides down payment and loan assistance for homebuyers, administers loans and grants for home maintenance and runs education programs.
Guilfoil said she was thrilled the board chose Thompson, calling him an “experienced and knowledgeable leader.”
“Chris brings a deep understanding of CNE’s lines of business and a strong vision for the future,” Guilfoil said in the release. “I am confident that under Chris’ leadership, CNE will continue to grow its impact and make an even greater difference in the Chattanooga community.”
Thompson was chosen from a field of over 300 candidates, according to the release. He is set to begin work in Chattanooga on March 3. Guilfoil will remain active during the transition period, the release said.
Contact Ellen Gerst at egerst@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6319.