Kristen Murray

Kristen brings a collaborative, people-centered approach to development work, blending project management, participatory engagement, and strategic planning to help complex projects move from vision to implementation. As Director of Development at Element Commercial Real Estate, she supports mission-driven organizations, small businesses, and creative teams through feasibility, funding, timeline planning, and shared decision-making.

With a background spanning nonprofit leadership, social enterprise, and participatory design, Kristen has successfully managed projects ranging from small-scale initiatives to multi-year, multi-partner engagements. She excels at coordinating multidisciplinary teams, working closely with architects, contractors, artists, and community stakeholders, while creating clear work plans, budgets, and processes that keep projects on track.

At Element, Kristen brings a structured yet creative mindset, helping clients clarify goals, navigate complexity, and move forward with confidence. She is especially energized by projects that pair thoughtful design with meaningful community impact, and by collaborative teams that believe in the power of place to strengthen culture, opportunity, and connection.

Kristen is an active volunteer in the community and has served on the board of the Irreducible Grace Foundation. Outside of the office, Kristen enjoys biking, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.