Principal & Project Executive

Edward Henley is the Principal & Project Executive at Pillars Development, LLC. He excels in the management of large capital projects; providing timely and accurate management of often complex and complicated budget expenditures and reporting. He adeptly coordinates numerous government agencies, project personnel, and architectural, engineering and construction firms. Edward also holds expertise and experience in community engagement, diversity program monitoring, market assessments, master planning, and overall land use consulting. As the executive of a minority-owned firm, he lends his unique perspective to assist with market assessments and concept development, as well as facilitating and presenting in stakeholders engagement efforts. Edward also leads the company’s growing efforts in small scale development and placemaking, with a focus on housing and walkable communities. 

Edward serves as a board member for several organizations committed to improving economic and environmental causes, one of which is Rebuilding Together Nashville where he is acting President.

Edward is also a member of the Urban Land Institute’s Public Development and Infrastructure Council. With the council, he reviews case studies from across the nation, assessing feasibility and analyzing best practices for funding, initiatives and programs. His personal focus is how thoughtful development can create innovative and equitable benefits for the individuals and organizations of communities in multiple stages: seemingly stagnant, transitioning, and those dealing with or contemplating rapid growth.

Edward is a Nashville-native, born and raised. He attended University of Tennessee – Knoxville, where he earned a degree in Finance and Enterprise Management. Edward returned to Nashville in 2011 and founded Pillars Development in 2013.