Our people

Bo Kemp, a graduate of Yale University and Harvard Business School, is the CEO of the Southland Development Authority. Kemp's career began in finance at Morgan Stanley and TSG Capital Group, followed by a pivotal role in Cory A. Booker’s transition to Mayor of Newark, N.J., leading to his position as the city’s Business Administrator (COO). With over 15 years of experience working with municipal executives across the nation, Kemp specializes in driving growth, major initiatives, and efficiency in municipalities through public-private partnerships. His expertise spans municipal utilities, public infrastructure, and economic development, particularly in legacy cities. Kemp's current focus is on harnessing the potential of Opportunity Zones. bo.kemp@southlanddevelopment.org

Brandon holds an MBA from Xavier University and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago. With a decade of experience encompassing finance, operations, education, and real estate, Blackmer's diverse background includes managing property operations for Greystar and leading strategic finance and operations at Evoke Brand Strategies. His leadership skills extend to community service, where he is the president emeritus and consultant for a non-profit organization in his hometown. Blackmer's approach to financial problem-solving combines strategic vision with a people-centered focus, driving excellence and innovation at the Southland Development Authority. brandon.blackmer@southlanddevelopment.org

Director of Business Growth Services, Southland Development Authority Emmanuel Davila is a dynamic, bilingual professional with expertise in business and community development. He is fluent in English and Spanish and holds a BA in Arts, Entertainment, & Media Management from Columbia College Chicago, along with an MBA in Management from UIC. With a strong track record in program management, grant acquisition, and strategic leadership, Emmanuel has been instrumental in the creation and execution of 26 small business and economic development programs since 2020. These initiatives have delivered over 4000 hours of business advising and funneled nearly $5 million in investment into Chicago’s South and West sides. Key contributions include his role in formulating Puerto Rico Town’s 10-year economic development plan and the establishment of the BIS Hub in Humboldt Park, which secured over $3 million in funding. At Southland Development Authority, Emmanuel is dedicated to driving economic growth and nurturing an entrepreneurial environment in the Southland region. Honored in Negocios Now 'Latinos 40 Under 40, Chicago, 2021,' and a recipient of the Remy Centaur Award for community development, Emmanuel is also passionate about Latin Urban music and enjoys family time with his daughter and fiancée. emmanuel.davila@southlanddevelopment.org

Harry holds a bachelor's degree in Engineering Science from Aurora University. Harry brings over two decades of leadership experience in diverse sectors including renewable energy, metals manufacturing, product development, and engineering. His extensive background is marked by significant roles at both domestic and international companies. harry.holtz@southlanddevelopment.org

Jean Pogge is a social entrepreneur who has proven ability to align social mission with revenue goals. Happiest at the intersection of business and social innovation, she currently serves as the North American Representative for the Global Alliance for Banking on Values and as the Interim Chief of Staff for Southland Development Authority. Her career included more than a decade on the executive leadership team of ShoreBank and she held CEO positions at several nonprofits. Pogge currently is a nonprofit change management consultant. Pogge has a BA in English from Barat College and a Masters in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois. She completed studies of English Literature at Oxford University.

Joe Van Dyk, with a graduate degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago and an undergraduate degree from Fordham University, serves as the Executive Director of the South Suburban Land Bank & Development Authority (SSLBDA). His over a decade-long career in public service includes expertise in planning, redevelopment, public policy, and economic development. Van Dyk has held significant roles in Gary, IN, and the Pacific Northwest, focusing on housing and homelessness. His leadership in various boards, including the Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority and the Land County Land Bank Authority, has solidified his reputation in strategic planning and public service. joseph.vandyk@southlanddevelopment.org

Mauro Ballesteros Ayala, the Data Manager at the Chicago Southland Development Authority, holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Applied Data Science from the University of Chicago. With additional certification from the Taiwanese government, Ayala's expertise in data science and international experience significantly contribute to the authority's economic development. His tenure as Director of E-commerce, International Trade, and Logistics at the Promexico's Government of Mexico highlights his ability to drive digital data strategies and global partnerships. Ayala's active participation in global forums like the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance Summits and the Mexico B20 task forces at the World Economic Forum and OECD Week demonstrates his commitment to impactful international economic development. mauro.ballesteros.ayala@southlanddevelopment.org

Nicholas Greifer, a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.A. and M.P.P. degrees, is the Director of Municipal Economic Development, focusing on capacity building partnerships with Southland municipal governments. He currently leads major projects such as the redevelopment of the 130-acre Calumet Country Club as the primary economic development professional for the Village of Hazel Crest. Greifer's previous roles include economic development strategy and implementation for the Village of Brookfield and the City of Harvey, as well as a TIF/economic development finance consultant for Kane, McKenna, and Associates. His career began with the U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) in Washington D.C. nicholas.greifer@southlanddevelopment.org

Sara Altwal, the Marketing Manager at Southland Development Authority, holds a Master of Science in Global Strategic Communications from Loyola University Chicago and an MBA from Lewis University. With over 8 years of experience, Sara excels in delivering strategic communications to multicultural audiences. Her past role at SC Johnson involved executing and managing media projects, driving SEO strategies, and fostering relationships within the marketing organizations. Prior to this, she worked at a nonprofit in Jordan, developing communication strategies and managing key fundraising campaigns. sara.altwal@southlanddevelopment.org