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Matt Viggiano
Senior Advisor, Human Capital
Professional Background
Matt Viggiano is a highly accomplished urban planner with a multifaceted background that enriches his approach to land-use, site, and preservation planning. With years of extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, Matt has distinguished himself as a skilled facilitator and negotiator, adept at guiding projects that empower neighborhoods to prepare for growth and develop the capacity needed for current and future populations. His work is characterized by a collaborative spirit and a commitment to navigating complex community dynamics to ensure that all voices are heard in the planning process.
Throughout his career, Matt has developed a reputation for possessing an intimate knowledge of the development entitlement process. He is well-versed in the intricacies of bringing projects to successful completion, which often involves shepherding initiatives through a variety of stakeholder engagements. His proficiency in working directly with legislative leaders, agency leadership, and community stakeholders allows him to craft projects that reflect the needs and aspirations of the community, making him an invaluable asset in any urban planning endeavor.
Matt’s career trajectory is marked by success in a variety of roles, each contributing to his profound understanding of urban issues, regulatory frameworks, and community engagement strategies. He is known for his ability to negotiate controversial projects, often thriving under pressure to deliver outcomes that benefit both community and government objectives.
Education and Achievements
Matt Viggiano's academic foundation is rooted in prestigious institutions that have equipped him with the skills necessary for effective urban planning. He earned his Master’s degree in Urban Planning from the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation, a program renowned for its rigorous curriculum and focus on practical application in urban environments. This advanced training has provided Matt with a deep theoretical and practical understanding of the complexities involved in urban development.
Prior to his graduate studies, Matt obtained a Bachelor of Science in Government from Skidmore College. His undergraduate education not only honed his analytical and critical thinking skills but also fostered his interest in public service and community development. This combination of educational background has been instrumental in shaping his approach to urban planning, providing him with a balanced perspective on the intersection of policy, governance, and urban development.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Matt Viggiano has held numerous high-impact positions where he demonstrated leadership and expertise in urban planning:
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Senior Advisor at NYC Citywide Administrative Services: In this role, Matt advised citywide administrative services on urban planning initiatives, demonstrating his capacity to manage strategic projects that impact city governance.
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Vice President, Real Estate at Kasirer LLC: As Vice President, Matt contributed to strategic real estate initiatives, overseeing projects from a unique vantage point of public and private sector involvement.
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Press Secretary at New York City Mayor's Office of Housing Recovery Operations: In this capacity, he was instrumental in communicating crucial housing recovery information to the public, reflecting his strength in stakeholder engagement and public relations.
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Director of Land Use and Planning at the Office of Council Woman Rosie Mendez: Here, he led land-use initiatives that embodied community needs, showcasing his commitment to inclusive urban development.
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Project Manager at New York City Council - Economic and Community Development Division: Matt managed various projects that aimed to stimulate community development and economic growth, utilizing his negotiation skills to broker agreements among diverse stakeholders.
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Urban Planning Fellow at Manhattan Borough President's Office: This fellowship allowed Matt to immerse himself in urban planning initiatives of Manhattan, further fortifying his expertise and network within the field.
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Director of Land Use and Planning at Office of Council Member Margaret S. Chin: In this significant role, he contributed to legislative efforts and land-use decisions that shaped the fabric of local neighborhoods.
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Director of Land Use and Community Outreach at Council Member Alan J. Gerson, where he facilitated community engagement and consultation on urban planning matters.
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Chief of Staff at Senator Martin Connor: Overseeing operations and strategic planning initiatives, this position allowed Matt to develop leadership skills that have been essential to his subsequent roles in urban planning.
Conclusion
With a strong foundation built on academia and enriched by a diverse career, Matt Viggiano is a prominent figure in the field of urban planning. His ability to navigate the complexities of community needs while advancing significant land-use projects has solidified his reputation as a respected leader and negotiator. As urban areas continue to evolve, the skills and expertise he possesses make him an invaluable resource for any organization looking to make a lasting impact on community development and urban planning.
