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New CEO named at growing Cincinnati development firm

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, August 29th 2025 at 14:31 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Cincinnati’s Growing Development Firm Appoints Bryan Kelley as New CEO, Eyes 300‑Million‑Dollar Expansion

Local12 News – In a move that signals a new chapter for one of Cincinnati’s fastest‑growing real‑estate developers, the board of STNL Development announced today that Bryan Kelley will take the helm as the company’s chief executive officer. Kelley, who previously served as senior vice‑president at Neyer‑Wawa Construction Group, brings more than 20 years of experience in land‑use planning, project management, and community‑focused development to the role.

The announcement came amid a period of aggressive growth for the firm, which has now surpassed $300 million in assets and is poised to tackle several high‑profile projects across the Greater Cincinnati area. The board highlighted Kelley’s proven track record of scaling operations while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable design and stakeholder engagement.

A Brief History of STNL Development

Founded in 2005 by former Cincinnati City Council member Marta Reyes, STNL Development (Strategic New‑Town Land) has built a reputation for creating mixed‑use communities that blend residential, retail, and civic spaces. Over the past decade the company has completed more than 35,000 square feet of mixed‑use development and has secured a portfolio of 12 active projects, ranging from a 150‑unit apartment complex in the Clifton Heights neighborhood to a 20‑story office tower in downtown Cincinnati.

“From the beginning, STNL has been about people,” Reyes said. “It’s not just about building structures; it’s about building communities.” Her leadership helped secure a $50 million municipal bond that funded the first of the firm’s flagship projects, the Riverwalk Renewal Initiative. The initiative is now slated for completion in 2025 and is expected to bring in an additional $120 million in private investment.

Bryan Kelley: A Proven Development Leader

Kelley’s arrival comes after an impressive career at Neyer‑Wawa Construction Group, where he led the firm’s expansion into the Midwest and orchestrated a series of green‑building certifications for major projects. He is credited with driving the company’s transition to LEED Platinum certification for its flagship Riverbend Office Park in 2019.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Bryan to the STNL family,” said Will Sayer, STNL’s chief operating officer. “His deep industry knowledge and passion for sustainable development align perfectly with our mission. He’s the kind of leader who will take our community‑centric approach to the next level.”

Kelley expressed enthusiasm for the role in an interview with Local12 after the announcement. “STNL’s history of creating vibrant, inclusive spaces is truly inspiring,” he said. “I’m excited to work with an exceptional team to build on that legacy, expand our footprint, and continue to prioritize environmental stewardship and community partnerships.”

Vision for the Next Five Years

The company’s strategic plan, unveiled alongside Kelley’s appointment, outlines a five‑year roadmap that includes:

1. Diversifying Project Mix – Expanding into mixed‑use luxury housing and affordable‑home developments, with a focus on high‑density urban cores.
2. Technology Integration – Implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) across all projects to streamline design and reduce construction waste.
3. Sustainability Goals – Achieving net‑zero carbon emissions by 2030 and securing a portfolio of at least 10 new projects that meet or exceed the LEED Gold standard.
4. Community Engagement – Partnering with local NGOs and civic groups to create public spaces that reflect the unique cultural heritage of Cincinnati’s neighborhoods.

“The next chapter for STNL is not just about building structures,” Kelley told the board. “It’s about shaping the way people live, work, and play in this city. By integrating technology, sustainability, and community values, we’ll create developments that stand the test of time.”

Upcoming Projects and Market Impact

Kelley’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Cincinnati’s real‑estate market. The city is experiencing a surge in demand for downtown living, and the firm’s upcoming “Central City Residences” project—a 12‑story mixed‑use tower in the Over-the-Rhine district—will deliver 200 high‑quality apartments with retail space on the ground floor. The project, which has secured a $60 million investment from a consortium of private equity funds, is projected to generate an additional $25 million in economic activity for the region over the next decade.

In addition, STNL will complete the “Cincinnati Riverwalk Expansion”—a $45 million public–private partnership that will widen the pedestrian corridor along the Ohio River and incorporate a series of community gardens, art installations, and a new amphitheater. The project has already garnered praise from city officials for its potential to boost tourism and revitalise the waterfront.

A Forward‑Looking Leadership Team

The firm’s leadership changes are not limited to Kelley’s appointment. In a statement issued by the board, the company announced that Dr. Lena Wu will assume the role of chief sustainability officer. Dr. Wu has previously worked as a consultant for the U.S. Green Building Council and will spearhead the firm’s environmental initiatives.

Additionally, the board named Carlos Mendoza as chief financial officer, bringing a decade of financial oversight experience from the Cincinnati Development Bank. Mendoza’s role will be crucial in securing financing for the firm’s upcoming projects and ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Community and Investor Reactions

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from both the local community and investors. Cincinnati’s Mayor John Hickenlooper released a statement expressing support for STNL’s growth strategy: “The city welcomes leaders who prioritize sustainable, community‑focused development. STNL’s commitment to building inclusive spaces aligns with our vision for a vibrant, equitable Cincinnati.”

Investors have responded positively as well. A representative from Capital Partners, the firm’s primary private‑equity backer, said, “Bryan Kelley’s proven track record of delivering high‑quality projects on time and within budget gives us confidence in STNL’s ability to scale while maintaining its core values.”

Conclusion

With Bryan Kelley’s appointment, STNL Development is poised to accelerate its expansion into new markets and deepen its commitment to sustainable, community‑centric development. The firm’s ambitious roadmap, supported by a robust leadership team and a growing portfolio of assets, signals a bright future for Cincinnati’s real‑estate landscape. As the city continues to evolve, STNL’s role in shaping its future is set to become increasingly pivotal.

For more information on STNL Development and its upcoming projects, visit the company’s website at [ stnl-development.com ].