Chattanooga, July 28, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise has appointed Christopher Thompson as its new CEO, effective March 3. Thompson comes from the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency, bringing extensive experience in community development. He will succeed Martina Guilfoil, who is retiring. The board is optimistic about Thompson’s leadership in advancing CNE’s mission of creating economically diverse neighborhoods and accessible housing.
Chattanooga
Christopher Thompson has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE), effective March 3. The decision comes after an extensive nationwide search that attracted over 300 candidates, underscoring the importance of this leadership role in the community.
The current President and CEO, Martina Guilfoil, is set to retire at the end of February. She will assist Thompson during the transition period to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.
About the New CEO
Thompson is currently the CEO of the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency and the West Central Community Development Corporation, also known as New Growth. His work with West Central involves serving nine primary counties in West Central Missouri and overseeing a range of crucial programs that include housing assistance, food security initiatives, and workforce solutions.
Before this position, Thompson practiced as a commercial real estate attorney for over 15 years. He has also contributed to rural community economic development through his involvement in a national poverty initiative and partnerships with Emory University focused on community entrepreneurship projects in the Atlanta area.
Support from the Board and Transition Details
Andrea Hardaway, the Board chair of CNE, expressed enthusiasm about Thompson’s appointment, highlighting his extensive background in both community and economic development. Meanwhile, Martina Guilfoil expressed confidence in Thompson’s capabilities and his ability to build upon the foundation established during her time at CNE.
In response to his appointment, Thompson expressed his honor in being selected as CEO and his eagerness to collaborate with the CNE team and community partners to further the mission of CNE.
CNE’s Mission and Goals
The mission of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise is to create economically diverse neighborhoods filled with financially empowered citizens and to ensure that quality housing is accessible to all residents. As Thompson prepares for his new role, he aims to create a positive impact on the communities served by CNE.
Thompson’s Educational Background
Thompson holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) as well as a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Dispute Resolution from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resources from the same institution.
Looking Forward
The leadership transition comes at a significant time for CNE as it continues its mission to empower citizens and enrich neighborhoods in Chattanooga. With Thompson at the helm, the organization is expected to steer towards innovative solutions for housing and community development challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new CEO of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise?
Christopher Thompson has been appointed as the new CEO, effective March 3.
What was the process of selecting the new CEO?
The selection process involved a nationwide search that attracted over 300 candidates for the position.
What experience does Christopher Thompson have?
Thompson has experience as the CEO of the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency and has worked as a commercial real estate attorney for over 15 years.
What is CNE’s mission?
CNE aims to create economically diverse neighborhoods and empower citizens financially while ensuring accessible housing for all.
Key Features of Christopher Thompson and CNE
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| New Position | CEO of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise |
| Appointment Date | March 3 |
| Number of Candidates | Over 300 |
| Previous Role | CEO of West Central Missouri Community Action Agency |
| Legal Experience | Commercial real estate attorney for over 15 years |
| Educational Background | J.D., LL.M. in Dispute Resolution, and B.S. in Business Administration |
| CNE Mission | Create economically diverse neighborhoods and ensure accessible housing |
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Isn’t Unique to Tennessee
- Atlas Obscura: Chattanooga Bucket List Bites
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly Names New Appointments
- Tennessean: Nashville, Franklin Ranked Best in the South
- Chattanoogan: Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga Community Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga
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