Johanna Bye Email & Phone Number

Greater Chicago Area

I was the founder and creative director of Graze Gourmet, a Chicago-based catering company that specialized in grazing boards and large appetizer spreads. As the owner, I managed all aspects of marketing (branding, website creation, advertising campaigns, social media) and business accounting (P&L statements, budgeting, taxes); recruited, hired, and supervised part-time employees to assist with general operations; and created and hosted grazing board workshops where I successfully taught 250+ individuals virtually and at local event spaces, specialty stores, hotels, homes, and offices to positive reviews.

Des Plaines, Illinois

In this role, I managed development proposals through the City’s complete entitlement process, working closely with residents, developers, architects, and engineers from initial concept meetings through application submittal, meetings with elected officials, and permitting. I aided economic development efforts in the city to attract new commercial and residential investment, particularly in the downtown area and strategic commercial corridors, and streamlined the approval process for businesses looking to locate or stay in Des Plaines by initiating Zoning Code updates and an overhaul of the application process. Additionally, I evaluated residential and commercial development proposals for compliance with the City’s Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan, as well as established urban design and planning standards; provided technical assistance regarding planning and zoning matters to the general public; and assisted with a complete update of the City's Comprehensive Plan.

Libertyville, Illinois

In my role as Associate Planner, I reviewed development proposals for compliance with zoning regulations and worked with planning staff and relevant commissions to recommend and implement Zoning Code updates, such as revisions to the Village's sign code. I performed research on special topics through the review of ordinances, codes, and best practices from surrounding communities and prepared reports and exhibits for appropriate commissions and public officials. Additionally, Served as staff liaison to the Appearance Review Commission and inaugural Historic Preservation Commission. I am proud to have co-founded Libertyville Gardens, a one-acre community garden, in 2013 through a public-private partnership. The garden was recognized as a 2014 Lake County Municipal League Innovation Award Honoree.

Chicago, Il

At CNU, I initiated a Street Vitality Index (SVI) to measure and rate the vibrancy, health, and walkability of streets. I produced an SVI report that explored existing street rating systems and offered recommendations for the future. Additionally, I promoted the Walkable Urban Thoroughfares and Emergency Response & Street Design initiatives and assisted with annual CNU Congress planning, programming, and communications.

Chicago, Il

As a Research Analyst, I conducted sponsorship research using online resources, trade publications, surveys, and telephone interviews. I analyzed sponsorship competitive data to identify trends, strategies, and opportunities for clients.

Chicago, Il

As a Customer Relations Coordinator, I supported sales and marketing teams to ensure effective communication with clients. I aided clients with orders, registrations, and inquiries regarding company services, events, and publications.

M.A., Urban Planning & Policy, Community Development

Activities and Societies: Students for the New Urbanism

B.A., Geography, Global Studies

Activities and Societies: Kappa Alpha Theta, Geography Club, Darfur Action Committee, Gamma Theta Upsilon Geography Honors Society, UCLA.