New head honcho at Urban Development Society
New Managing Director at Solingen SEG: Julia Anneke Kunz Takes the Helm
Julia Anneke Kunz, a seasoned professional in the field of spatial planning, has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Stadtentwicklungsgesellschaft Solingen (SEG), effective from February 1st.
Originally from Wuppertal, Kunz brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She spent the last eleven years at IGW - Iserlohner Gemeinnützige Wohnungsgesellschaft mbH, where she headed the area of existing buildings and urban development. Prior to this, she served as deputy director at the Planning and Building Supervision Office of the city of Wülfrath.
Kunz's areas of interest within the SEG include brownfield development, new construction of residential properties, and social infrastructure. Her first focus for 2025 will be the two daycare centers currently being built on Schwanenstraße in Ohligs and at the clinic.
The demand for housing and care facilities is high, but the availability of large, uncomplicated potential areas is limited. Kunz acknowledges this challenge and emphasizes the importance of quickly starting the development of plots.
Brownfields and vacancies in central locations are consequences of structural change. Kunz views SEG as a "problem solver" and "impulsgeber", and a strategic partner in the city. She believes that the SEG can play a role in bringing city-wide important projects to fruition as a municipal company.
Andreas Budde remains as SEG Managing Director, and Kunz looks forward to continuing the work of her predecessors in the SEG management and successfully implementing projects with him. Kunz, who holds a degree in spatial planning, is excited about the variety of upcoming projects in these areas and the opportunities for design.
It's worth noting that Kunz is replacing Carsten Zimmermann, who has been leading the department 1 (Administrative Management) at the town hall since last November. Despite limited investor interest due to low returns and complex measures, Kunz is optimistic about the future of SEG and its role in the development of Solingen. Her goal is to develop new things and move Solingen forward, collaborating with the town hall, politics, and city society.
Julia Anneke Kunz, new Managing Director of SEG, is keen to make a difference in the home-and-garden sector, focusing on brownfield development and the new construction of residential properties and social infrastructure. In line with her goal to develop new things and move Solingen forward, she considers SEG as a crucial partner in implementing city-wide projects and improving Solingen's lifestyle.