CLEVELAND, Ohio – KJK is pleased to announce that David Ebersole has joined the firm as Partner and Director of Economic Development & Incentives, expanding the firm’s capabilities in development finance, public-private partnerships and incentive strategy for real estate and infrastructure projects across Ohio and beyond.
In this role, David is responsible for partnering with governments, developers and businesses to structure development finance programs, secure tax incentives and navigate regulatory frameworks to advance transformative projects. He brings deep familiarity with local, state and federal incentive tools, including TIF, tax credits and specialized financing programs.
David has nearly two decades of experience in economic development and public-private partnerships. Prior to joining KJK, he served as Vice President – Development Finance of Greater Cleveland Partnership, where he supported economic development efforts across Cleveland and helped advance major projects throughout the region. From 2017 to 2022, he served as the City of Cleveland’s Director of Economic Development as a member of Mayor Frank G. Jackson’s Cabinet. During this time, David led the deployment of more than $160 million in economic development support, leveraging more than $2.5 billion in private investment.
His work included negotiating financing assistance for the Sherwin Williams headquarters project and multiple phases of the Flats East Bank development. He was also a leader in the redevelopment of the Health Tech and Opportunity corridors, guiding the assembly and remediation of brownfield sites that have since supported thousands of new jobs.
David’s contributions to redevelopment were recognized by Ohio EPA when he received the 2014 award for outstanding leadership in brownfield redevelopment. He was also named a 2016 Crain’s Cleveland Business 40 Under 40 honoree.
“David brings invaluable experience and relationships that will strengthen our ability to guide clients through complex development and incentive landscapes. His leadership will be a significant asset as we continue supporting projects that drive growth throughout the region,” said Jon Pinney, KJK Managing Partner.
David will work across the firm’s real estate, public finance, economic development and government affairs teams as KJK continues to expand its work with developers, municipalities, institutions and private-sector partners.
Please join KJK in welcoming David Ebersole to its Cleveland office. We are confident that his leadership will further enhance KJK’s ability to support impactful projects and long-term economic growth. Learn more here.
About KJK
With offices in Cleveland and Columbus, KJK serves companies of all sizes and sectors, including Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofits, mid-market companies, small businesses, start-ups and other entrepreneurs. We are a full-service law firm built for business – and beyond. Our robust practice areas serve clients locally and nationally, with the combined experience of our skilled team of 50+ attorneys. For more information, visit kjk.com.