Elected leader for Urban Development Society
Solingen, a town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, welcomes a new managing director to its city development company (SEG). Julia Anneke Kunz, a seasoned urban planner with a background in spatial planning, takes over the role effective February 1st.
Kunz, a 45-year-old native of Wuppertal, brings a fresh perspective to Solingen's urban development efforts. Her focus is on advancing sustainable development, improving infrastructure, and fostering community engagement to enhance the quality of life in Solingen.
With expertise in urban planning, project management, or public administration, Kunz aims to guide the SEG toward innovative, efficient, and inclusive growth strategies that align with the city’s long-term vision. Key goals under her tenure might involve revitalizing key neighborhoods, supporting affordable housing projects, and enhancing economic development initiatives to strengthen Solingen’s social and economic fabric.
The initial focus of Kunz's tenure at SEG will be on the development of two daycare centers, one on Schwanenstraße in Ohligs and another at the clinic. The SEG, responsible for a variety of upcoming projects in the areas of brownfield development, new construction, and social infrastructure, also has an annual plan with further projects in the pipeline.
Kunz views SEG as a "problem solver", "impulse generator", and strategic partner in the city. She is excited about her new role, which involves tasks such as brownfield development, new construction of residential properties, and social infrastructure, as well as dealing with problem properties.
Investor interest in these areas is limited due to low returns and complex measures. However, Kunz is determined to quickly start the development of plots as part of her work at SEG. She looks forward to continuing the work of her predecessors, Carsten Zimmermann and Hartmut Hoferichter, and working with Andreas Budde to successfully implement projects.
The position of managing director at SEG remains dual, with Andreas Budde also holding the position of deputy mayor. Budde will undoubtedly provide valuable support and guidance as Kunz navigates her new role. The SEG can contribute to bringing projects of city-wide importance to fruition as a municipal company.
Kunz succeeds Carsten Zimmermann, who has been leading the department 1 (administrative management) at the town hall since last November. With a collaborative approach, Kunz intends to work closely with the town hall, politics, and various actors in civil society to move Solingen forward.
As Kunz takes the helm at the SEG, the people of Solingen can look forward to a renewed emphasis on urban development, community engagement, and sustainable growth. Kunz's leadership is poised to make a significant impact on the city's future.
With her focus on sustainable development and community engagement, Julia Kunz, the new managing director at SEG, aims to bring innovation and inclusions to Solingen's home-and-garden landscape, starting with the development of new daycare centers and revitalizing key neighborhoods. Her lifestyle vision for Solingen involves fostering a more appealing and livable urban environment, supported by affordable housing and strong economic development initiatives.
