A milestone moment
After 25 years as CEO of Gehl – Making Cities for People , I am stepping aside from the role that has shaped so much of my professional life. What began in Copenhagen as a simple, yet radical idea, that cities should be designed for people, has grown into a globally recognised practice and movement, and I am humbled and grateful for having had the opportunity as CEO from inception until now.
I co-founded the company with Jan Gehl in 2000. When Jan stepped down as co-owner in 2010, I committed to continue the people-first approach at the heart of the company. Leading Gehl over the past 25 years has been a privilege. Together, we have worked in cities around the world to shape streets, squares, and public life, and to change how urban life is understood, measured, and valued. I am deeply proud of what Gehl has become and the impact our work continues to have.
As of 1 February, I am delighted to welcome Kjersti Lund as new CEO of Gehl. Kjersti brings a strong sense of Gehl’s values and ambitions, and a genuine passion for creative companies within the built environment with an innovative and global mindset. I have great confidence in her leadership as Gehl enters its next chapter.
The time is right. Gehl has grown into a fully international practice with a growing portfolio, and is now embarking on the next phase of global development. With offices in Copenhagen, New York and San Francisco, Gehl continues to grow its impact and business in Latin America, Asia-Pacific and in the Middle-East.
In a world where political, social and environmental imbalances challenge quality of lives, Gehl continues to work with cities, foundations and with the private sector to drive change towards healthy, equitable and resilient places and communities.
This is not a goodbye. As Founding Partner, I will continue as Chair of the Board of Directors and remain actively engaged in shaping Gehl’s global positioning — supporting both continuity and bold momentum for the future.
To mark this milestone, Gehl will contribute to an exciting exhibition celebrating 25 years of our work on cities, opening this summer at the Danish Architecture Centre in Copenhagen. It is a meaningful moment to reflect on the ideas, impact, and people-centred approach that have guided us from the beginning.
A moment to celebrate the journey so far and to look ahead with excitement and confidence.
Read more here.
