Ryan Friedrichs

Ryan Friedrichs is a prominent figure in Detroit's development and public service sectors. Here's an overview of his background and current role:

Professional Experience

Ryan Friedrichs currently serves as the Vice President of Development at Related Companies, one of the largest developers of affordable housing in the United States.15 In this role, he has been instrumental in leading major development projects in Detroit, including:

• Working on a significant project with Stephen Ross, which involves a $100 million donation and aims to attract big companies and retain graduates in Detroit.1
• Focusing on catalyzing more housing, hotels, and other developments in the city.1

Prior to joining Related Companies, Friedrichs held several notable positions:

• Chief Development Officer for the City of Detroit (2015-2020), where he was responsible for developing public-private partnerships between key mayoral initiatives and philanthropy.2
• Chief executive of several national organizations, including leading the civic technology organization State Voices and opening its offices in 16 states.2

Education and Military Service

Friedrichs has a strong educational background:

• B.A. with honors in Political Science from the University of Michigan.1
• Master's in Public Policy from Harvard's JFK School of Government.12

He is also a veteran of the U.S. Army:

• Served as a paratrooper and intelligence and infantry Team Leader in the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Afghanistan.2
• In 2014, served as a Squad Leader in northern Poland with the first US unit deployed in response to the crisis in Ukraine.2

Achievements and Recognition

• Named to the Chronicle of Philanthropy's national class of 40 under 40 leaders "solving the problems of today – and tomorrow" in 2016.2
• His master's thesis was one of the first published field studies on the efficacy of youth civic engagement techniques in the United States.2

Board Memberships

Friedrichs is active in various community organizations:

• Advisory Board member for the Youth Policy Lab at the University of Michigan.2
• Board member of Volunteers of America Michigan.3
• Board member of City Year Detroit.4

Ryan Friedrichs is married to Jocelyn Benson and they have a son named Aiden.2 His work demonstrates a strong commitment to public service, urban development, and civic engagement in Detroit and beyond.