Look Who it Was Random video

Change is opportunity | Ben Franz-Knight | TEDxEastsidePrep

848 views · Published 17 April 2017 · 16:51 · Indexed 21 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2017 · Nonprofits & Activism

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What does it take to move an organization as old and complex as Seattle's Pike's Place Market into the future? Ben brings us through the intricate workings of the market as they imagine the future while retaining its essential nature. Through the process of moving that community forward, the techniques that work are the old ones. In particular, strong relationships with the constituents, involving their ideas and being patient. By the end of this talk you’ll look at Pike’s Place in a whole new light.

Ben Franz-Knight is the Executive Director of the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA). In this position, he oversees 400 businesses, 500 residents, 90 farmers, 200 fixed leases and 200 artists. In addition to staying connected to these people, the last few years of this project has been about connecting The Market with the city’s new waterfront by overseeing the conception and construction of the new MarketFront expansion. Ben grew up in Pullman, WA and got his Bachelor of Fine-Arts degree at the University of Washington, where he got his first taste of management at the student bike shop in The Hub. From there, Ben moved to Los Angeles where he worked for the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corp. There he worked his way up to Administrative Assistant and ultimately, the Executive Director. While the Pier was a perfect place to learn, Ben was drawn back to The Market in 2010 to take the lead in numerous renovations including seismic, plumbing and electrical imp

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

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