As program officer with the emes project llc and the Schultz Family Foundation, Kris works across sectors to advance programs, policies and partnerships that unlock economic opportunity for individuals and communities facing barriers to prosperity.
Kris brings nearly two decades of experience to his role, having worked across the public, private and nonprofit sectors in areas of community and economic development, tri-sector innovation, public policy, corporate communications, and fundraising. Before joining the team, Kris led the City of Bellevue’s first-ever public-private partnership program. In this role, he was responsible for the development of strategic cross-sector partnerships to advance public policy goals, promote social impact, and build capacity of nonprofit partners.
Prior to moving with his wife to Seattle, Kris served as Assistant Commissioner for the New York City Department of Small Business Services. In this role, he directed citywide and neighborhood-based economic development programs and policies aimed at creating economic opportunity and ensuring the success of New York City’s central business districts, neighborhood commercial corridors and industrial areas.
Before beginning his career in public service, Kris held roles in corporate communications and media relations with Home Box Office, and in development for the Brown University Sports Foundation. Kris holds a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Cornell University, and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Brown University.