River City Co. announces new appointments

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Kim White, president and CEO of River City Company, has announced the appointment of three new staff members.

Jim Williamson will hold the title of director of special projects. Elana Gulas will serve as economic development and retail coordinator. Blair Waddell is the new promotions and events coordinator.

“These three individuals bring our team to a new level, and their qualifications support the new vision and standard of the organization overall, said White. “Williamson’s strong background in both the technical and design industries gives him a unique perspective when working with potential businesses, government and other strategic partners to advance our downtown. His history of directing sustainability initiatives and managing development projects will be vital as we move forward with our goal of promoting and supporting Chattanooga’s downtown.”

Williamson has 15 years of experience in project management and architecture. Most recently he served as the director of a pre-construction services at Kuebler Builders, Inc. Prior to that, he worked as the senior project manager and director of sustainability initiatives at CBL & Associates. Williamson received his bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Tennessee.

Gulas joins the River City Company from CreateHere, where she served as the senior fellow for culture responsible for collaboration with business owners to facilitate successful community growth, events and campaigns. A graduate of East Tennessee State University, Gulas holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing. She is currently a member of WTCI’s Community Advisory Board.

“It is imperative that River City Company positions downtown Chattanooga as an ideal location for distinctive retail and other business opportunities,” said White. “In her role, Gulas will support River City’s efforts to support and grow the downtown retail and business sectors. She has shown herself to be a strong leader and committed to Chattanooga’s continued development.”

In her new position, Waddell will be responsible for the day-to-day operations associated with various new programs and promotions launched by River City Company to enhance the downtown experience.

Waddell joined River City from CreateHere, where she helped create the community-visioning project, STAND.

“Waddell will work with downtown businesses to establish partnerships for cross-promotion of downtown, and offer unique opportunities to engage residents and visitors in downtown life,” White said. “Waddell brings the highest level of professionalism to our company and a proven track record of event field work in our community.”

Established more than 20 years ago, River City, a non-profit organization, was funded by local foundations and businesses to serve as the catalyst of a community visioning initiative that also included the Riverwalk and the 21st Century Waterfront, The Tennessee Aquarium, The Creative Discovery Museum, RiverBend, the Chattanooga Lookout Stadium, the Bijou Theatre and a variety of residential developments. The organization acts as a facilitator and partner to assist businesses to expand and relocate, promote existing retail and attract new shops and restaurants to Chattanooga.