Kate is a seasoned development consultant with years of public policy experience across multiple major cities. With her in-depth understanding of current issues and emerging trends in the development world, she provides clients with invaluable insights and strategic guidance on complex planning and real estate projects.
Having worked alongside some of the most influential planners and land use attorneys, Kate possesses a rare ability to navigate public and private sector forums with ease, giving clients a significant advantage in project management. In the current era of rapid technological change and shifting consumer preferences, Kate understands the importance of staying ahead of the curve and adapting to new realities in the built environment.
As a passionate urbanist, Kate has lived in some of the world's most vibrant cities, including Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, London, and Paris. Her broad global perspective is reflected in her approach to problem-solving and her ability to anticipate the evolving needs of today's communities. She believes that successful planning and development require a deep understanding of local context, as well as a commitment to promoting sustainability, resilience, and social equity.
Based in the United States, Kate is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals in a rapidly changing development landscape. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to each project, working collaboratively with stakeholders to create innovative solutions that balance economic, social, and environmental considerations.
Senior Legal Analyst, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP
At Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, I worked as a Senior Legal Analyst where I conducted due diligence reviews and provided risk analysis for property acquisition projects. I also proposed amendments to entitled but not yet built projects, which required a keen understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, and land use laws. Additionally, I provided expert review and comments on environmental impact reports, ensuring that clients' projects complied with environmental regulations and policies.
During my time in this role, I developed strong analytical and critical thinking skills, which allowed me to provide insightful recommendations to clients. I also collaborated effectively with colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders to achieve project goals and meet deadlines.
Senior Planner, San Francisco Planning Department
As a Senior Planner at the San Francisco Planning Department for 13 years, I was responsible for developing and managing policy, legislation, and implementation programs that enhance economic development opportunities, affordable housing, and the public realm. Notable achievements include drafting the Executive Park Sub Area Plan, revising San Francisco's Residential Design Guidelines, creating the Balboa Park Station Area Plan and Implementation Program, and leading the Northeast Embarcadero Study.
I developed and managed the Sustainable Development Program, which aimed to facilitate the implementation of sustainable infrastructure systems by coordinating private development and public improvements through community engagement. In this role, I led an inter-departmental team and engaged stakeholders to identify projects in the city’s pilot areas. I worked on projects centered around implementing Eco-Districts in the City, including locally generated renewable energy, district-scale water, and exploring ways to track performance metrics across public and private sectors at the district-scale. I also identified ideal partnership structures for project identification, implementation, and monitoring, and received over $1M in grants and technical assistance awards from the State, the Federal Government, and private foundations to support this forward-thinking work.
My skills include communication, bid analysis, building codes, site plans, site inspections, entitlements, community engagement, community development, renewable energy policy, thinking skills, stakeholder engagement, public affairs, presentations, position papers, legislative relations, and government relations. My work at the Planning Department was groundbreaking and piqued the interest of a wide range of stakeholders locally, nationally, and internationally who seek to apply these emerging models of urban planning, finance, and partnerships to their own work.
Projects
Infrastructure Analyst, London Underground Ltd.
As an Infrastructure Analyst at the London Underground Ltd., I played a key role in preparing the London Underground for its public private partnership. In this capacity, I focused on developing and testing information sharing and asset management strategies to help ensure the smooth transition to this new operating model. This work involved collaborating with colleagues across the organization to gather data, identify areas for improvement, and implement innovative solutions. Through my efforts, I helped to position the London Underground for long-term success and provided a foundation for continued growth and innovation.
Skills: Strategic Planning, Project Management, Collaboration, Data Analysis, Innovation
Researcher, Downtown Eastside Resident's Association
Helped to receive government support for SRO development and maintenance in Vancouver's downtown eastside.
Membership and Advisory Committees
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN URBAN PLANNING
Authored thesis on expediting infrastructure projects through public private partnerships, providing a step-by-step guide to remove the elevated freeway along Toronto's waterfront based on prior experience with the London Underground's privatization in 1999-2000.
University of Toronto, Canada
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND URBAN GEOGRAPHY
McGill University, Canada
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES
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