Woodlawn Central, an $895 million mixed-use megadevelopment designed to usher in urban regeneration and equitable economic development on Chicago’s South Side, has hired veteran brand strategist Wells Davis as chief strategy officer. Davis, a former C-suite executive at Leo Burnett, Saatchi & Saatchi and other major marketing agencies in the United States and Canada, brings more than two decades of experience as a leader and initiator to a diverse development team focused on catalyzing investment in Woodlawn and surrounding South Side communities.
Davis’ appointment comes at a time when Woodlawn Central’s progress to secure financing and efforts to obtain city approval for its planned development designations are accelerating.
“Wells shares our deep respect for realizing inclusive community engagement and embracing a visionary approach to achieve transformative economic development,” said J. Byron Brazier, Woodlawn Central’s lead developer. “His mindset and diverse background, professionally and personally, make it clear he will be extremely effective at collaborating with stakeholders to spark economic development and well-being.”
Davis has had extensive experience as both a chief marketing officer and CSO prior to joining Woodlawn Central. He has developed and implemented award-winning advertising campaigns and content strategies for leading brands including Apple, BMW, Coca-Cola, Lexus, Toyota, Microsoft, P&G, McDonald’s and Nike. His expertise also extends to development, and his branding work for the global real estate company Re/Max will translate to his role in elevating Woodlawn Central’s promise to drive economic transformation without displacement.
Along with significant marketing expertise, Davis has a substantial background in public policy and advocacy. He studied public policy at York University in Toronto and has long advocated for and amplified Black creativity and economic well-being in his professional efforts and personal endeavors. He has applied his proficiencies in these areas to pro-bono work for non-profit brands that include UNICEF, the White Ribbon Campaign and the United Nations.
In addition to including amenities, Woodlawn Central will spur demographic diversity with 870 new homes it will bring to the community, including affordable, workforce, luxury, senior and market-rate housing and newly strengthened transit infrastructure.
