Neil Bradshaw
Mayor
Neil Bradshaw was elected as Mayor of Ketchum in 2017. He earned a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacture and Management from the University of Birmingham, UK and an MBA while on scholarship to the University of Kansas.
My election campaign focused on a vision of Ketchum where the town is vibrant, connected, sustainable and safe. I see a diversity of housing options as a key ingredient to achieving that vision and have made that my top priority.
We all know we have world-class natural resources here, but it’s my view that our community is our single greatest resource and by tapping into that resource we will get the best for Ketchum.
As volunteer President of the Ketchum Community Development Corporation, a non-profit dedicated to growing the vibrancy of our community, I have witnessed first-hand the energy and expertise of both our part-time and full-time residents. I have overseen many successful volunteer-led projects including the creation of the Town Square, the development of the 4th Street Heritage Corridor, the building of Northwood Place Affordable Housing complex (32 units) and the formation of the Ketchum Innovation Center (KIC). My role was simple; empower the community of volunteers, give them the tools to be successful and then get out of the way!
I see my role in government in a similar light – it is about being connected to our community and being open to ideas. Engaged neighborhoods are the building blocks of successful cities and open dialogue leads to good public policy. There will always be challenges that face our town but if we are connected, we can face those challenges together - and with empathy, tolerance and understanding we can find solutions that work for us all. Together we can foster social, economic and cultural vibrancy so that we truly can be a “city for all seasons!”
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I first came to Ketchum in 1998 and moved here permanently in 2005. As a Business Advisor and Principal for Murphy Business and Financial of Southern Idaho, I see first-hand the challenges that local main street businesses face in a seasonal economy. Prior to joining Murphy, I was part-owner of a branded consumer goods company that targeted the outdoor market. I managed business development and international sales for the company until its successful sale in 2016.
Prior to moving to Ketchum, I worked in project finance, investment banking and equity research. In these roles I lived in San Francisco, New York, Kuala Lumpur, Johannesburg and London. I was born in Zimbabwe and grew up there until moving to the UK for high school and further education.
I have always loved the mountains and have been fortunate enough to go mountaineering around the world. However, my favorite mountain ranges are right here in our back yard. I do like to ski the backcountry as well as play tennis and golf. I feel very lucky to have Ivana Radlova as my wife and soulmate. Between us we have three sons from previous relationships.
If you are interested in any of Neil's initiatives or would like to know how you can get involved, contact him by email at nbradshaw@ketchumidaho.org.
