Urbanova Launches CEO Search

Board seeking an innovator with a growth mindset

SPOKANE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Urbanova’s Board of Directors is launching a search for its next chief executive officer to succeed Kim Zentz, who will step out of the role in November.

“Urbanova is in the high-growth and high-potential stage. We are seeking an innovator who is committed to improving the equity and resilience of midsize cities and who can continue to grow our strong portfolio of projects in Spokane and across the country,” said David Condon, Urbanova’s Board Chair.

Urbanova has selected the Northwest’s leading retained executive search firm Herd Freed Hartz to conduct the CEO recruitment. The chief executive officer, who reports to and is a member of the board of directors, has ultimate responsibility and accountability for managing and accelerating Urbanova’s strategic, programmatic, and financial/operational activities. The CEO also will be responsible for recruiting, managing, and supporting senior staff and helping them to align and execute priorities.

“The board is fully committed to a rigorous and well-executed search as we seek to enthusiastically welcome our next leader to apply the insights and tools Urbanova needs to thrive in pursuit of its mission to make communities better for people,” said Jason Verduzco, vice-chair of Urbanova board and search committee chair.

For more information, please see the position specification at https://urbanova.org/. Prospective candidates are invited to contact Herd Freed Hartz directly. To apply for the role or submit a nomination, please reach out to [e-mail] or [e-mail]. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential. First review of candidates will be the week of October 11.

Headquartered in Spokane, WA and incorporated in 2016, Urbanova (urbanova.org) is an urban innovation partnership focused on driving equitable solutions for midsize cities. With partners that include Avista, the City of Spokane, Itron, McKinstry, The University District Development Association, Washington State University, Verizon and Gallup, Urbanova builds multi-sector collaborations, develops technology, and harnesses strategies to create more resilient communities. A number of projects are currently underway, including one focused on advancing environmental justice and energy equity, as well as a partnership with WSU to develop interventions and communication strategies to reduce health risks during wildfire events.