Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Naji H. Kelley as its new Commercial Real Estate & Operations Manager. Kelley will oversee daily operations at The Dealership, the co-working and event-rental space that serves as headquarters for SHDC; manage SHDC’s and the Shaker Lee Development Fund’s commercial properties; and support the establishment of a Special Improvement District in the Chagrin-Lee commercial corridor.
With more than 15 years of program management experience spanning supply chain, information technology, and real estate, Kelley brings a proven record of driving results through strategic leadership and operational efficiency.
“We are thrilled to welcome Naji to SHDC," said Callie Cripps, executive director. "His breadth of experience and commitment to community development will be invaluable as we continue advancing Shaker Heights’ economic growth and redevelopment initiatives. On a personal level, I am excited to have a colleague whose passion for community matches his technical expertise. Naji’s energy, professionalism, and collaborative spirit will be tremendous assets to our team, our partners, and the neighborhoods we serve.”
Kelley is actively engaged in Cleveland’s real estate and development community. A recent graduate of the Cleveland Development Advisors’ Equitable Developers Initiative, he currently serves on the Government Affairs Committee of NAIOP Northern Ohio. He is a former ULI Cleveland Associate member, where he contributed to several key committees and initiatives, including the inaugural Real Estate Diversity Initiative, the Young Leaders Group, the Programs Committee, and multiple Technical Assistance Panels.
An eight-year U.S. Navy veteran, Kelley managed over $20 million in defense logistics operations, overseeing procurement, inventory, and global distribution in support of critical missions. His professional background includes coordinating complex supply chain projects, directing multi-million-dollar budgets, and implementing best practices to streamline operations and strengthen organizational performance.
The City of Shaker Heights established the non-profit SHDC in 1981 to enhance commercial revitalization efforts of the city in order to strengthen residential neighborhoods and diversify the tax base. The SHDC board serves as an agent of the city; the city, in turn, serves as SHDC’s fiduciary agent. SHDC staff members work hand-in-hand with the City's Economic Development Department staff.