The board of directors of Community Builders of Kansas City (CBKC) has voted unanimously to name Emmet Pierson, Jr., as its new president and chief executive officer. Pierson brings a depth of experience, community and political connections as well as national leadership expertise into his new role with CBKC.
Pierson’s real estate development experience spans nearly 30 years, having served as director of real estate for the Community Development Corporation of Kansas City and as senior advisor for the Housing and Economic Development Financial Corporation of Kansas City.
Pierson began his career with CBKC in 2001 where he advanced to vice president of real estate development before leaving in 2007 to form North 40 Development, LLC, a development management consulting firm specializing in mixed-income housing, public private partnerships and numerous other community and economic development issues.
Pierson also has extensive experience with professional associations including serving as chairman of the Lee’s Summit Housing Authority and on the board of directors of the Black Community Fund. In addition, Pierson has served as a commissioner and treasurer for PortKC, chairman of the policy committee for the National Congress for Community Economic Development and on the board of directors of Kansas City Beautiful, an affiliate of the national litter reduction program, Keep America Beautiful.
“I am excited and challenged to have the confidence of the board and staff to develop and implement CBKC’s integrated entrepreneurial business model,” Pierson said. “I was born and raised in the Blue Hill’s neighborhood where I learned about community development from my mother who served as the neighborhood president and advocate. I am humbled by the opportunity to help change the landscape of Kansas City by strengthening families and transforming communities. I look forward to taking CBKC to the next level, forging new partnerships, designing new solutions and strengthening bonds that will bring the community together, increase resources and empower families and neighborhoods.”
Pierson will begin his tenure as president and CEO on June 1.
