Interview: Will Anderson, director of development, Sherman Associates

From housing inspector to senior developer, Will Anderson brings a diverse mix of public and private sector experience to his new role as director of development at Minneapolis-based Sherman Associates. Sherman Associates, a developer of more than 8,000 multifamily units and 600,000 square feet of commercial space, tapped Anderson this month to oversee the company’s development teams. In that role, Anderson leads relationships with cities and finance agencies and drives real estate developments in existing and new markets. Anderson has been with Sherman Associates since 2012, most recently as senior developer. He has overseen projects that include Rayette Lofts, a complex historic renovation in downtown St. Paul, and the West Side Flats developments in St. Paul. Among the current projects under his watch is Beltline Station, a mixed-use development that will bring more than 400 housing units, commercial uses and more to the doorstep of a future Southwest Light Rail Transit whistle-stop in St. Louis Park. A graduate of the University of Minnesota with degrees in Urban Studies and Management, Anderson started his career as an intern with the city of St. Paul. He also worked for the city of Minneapolis housing inspector before moving on to Sherman Associates. In the following interview, Anderson speaks with reporter Brian Johnson about his career journey and his new role with Sherman. He also provides an update on Beltline Station and gives his take on current business conditions in the multifamily sector, among other topics.