Christopher J. Ryan, Ph.D., AICP

Captain
DISC Type : DS

Director of Planning & Building at Town of Belmont

Duxbury, Massachusetts, United States

Overview

Christopher J. Ryan is a seasoned urban planner with over 30 years of experience, currently serving as the Director of Planning & Building for the Town of Belmont. He holds a Ph. D. from Antioch University New England and is described by colleagues as knowledgeable, professional, and an excellent manager with expertise in zoning and sustainability.

Beyond his professional roles, Christopher is a writer, blogger, and self-described naturalist. He is passionate about community engagement and sustainability, often writing about New England culture, environmental topics, and localism. He also has a background as an educator, having served as an Adjunct Professor at Clark University.

Unique fact: He authors a blog called "The Yankee Planner, " where he explores urban planning, sustainability, and New England life.

Personality Overview

Output-Driven

Consummate Professional

Long-Term Thinker

Reading between the lines and seeing beyond your words comes naturally to them.  They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily. They exhibit a rare combination of being result-oriented but patient at the same time.

Topics They Care About

Zoning Reform
He is actively working on projects in Belmont involving zoning reform, form-based codes, and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaws, which he frequently posts about.
Community Sustainability
A core theme throughout his career and a key area of his expertise, including publishing an article titled "A Yankee Model for Sustainability. "
Housing Affordability
Shared a stark assessment of the housing market, suggesting a major initiative is needed to address the issue, indicating it's a topic of significant concern for him.

Media Appearances

Christopher has no verified media appearances

Work History

9-2023
Director of Planning & Building at Town of Belmont
7-2022 - 4-2024
Planning Director at Town of Duxbury, Massachusetts
10-2018 - 6-2022
Director of Community and Economic Development at Town of Harvard, MA
7-2018 - 10-2018
Interim Director of Planning and Development at City of Leominster
8-2014 - 3-2019
Adjunct Professor at Clark University

Education

2000 - 2011
Ph.D. from Antioch University New England
1983 - 1985
MCP from Georgia Institute of Technology

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : N/A Location : Duxbury, Massachusetts, United States Job Level : Mid-senior Designation : Director of Planning & Building at Town of Belmont
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Insights For Selling To Christopher J.

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • During followups, use phone or text if needed, they should be fine
  • You can spend time on BANT (or other qualification methodology) but keep it to the point
  • Let them know of potential risks but suggest mitigation methods alongside

DONT's

  • Don't shy away from asking hard questions, but be extra polite
  • Don't take their patience for granted, avoid long-winding sermons
  • Avoid putting conscious effort into relationship-building

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Christopher J. is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Christopher J.

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Christopher J. move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can Christopher J. take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And Christopher J.

Personality Compatibility


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