2 MIN READ -- Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) announced its new President and CEO, Suzet McKinney. Following a national search, McKinney joins the organization beginning May 11. Her career spans public health, public safety, real estate, corporate, tech and government sectors and will provide strategic implementation in expanding the organization’s impact, increasing confidence in the Loop while ensuring it is everyone’s neighborhood, and creating a complete urban district.
“I'm thrilled to take on this leadership role at Chicago Loop Alliance. CLA is well-situated to leverage the increased residential activity in the Loop, as well as new corporate neighbors,” said Dr. Suzet McKinney, incoming President and CEO of Chicago Loop Alliance. “We have a real opportunity to harness these assets, blending them with additional high-density commercial, retail and entertainment opportunities to create 24/7 vibrancy, similar to what we are seeing in multiuse districts and arts and entertainment submarkets across the country.”
“This moment marks an exciting new chapter for the Chicago Loop Alliance,” said Kemena Brooks, Chicago Loop Alliance Board Chair. “Suzet brings a depth of experience, strategic clarity, and inclusive leadership to accelerate our most critical initiatives. With the support of our board and staff, CLA is well-equipped to drive bold, measurable progress, elevating the Loop as a thriving, urban district that advances our businesses, residents, arts and culture, academic partners, and the vitality of all of Chicago.”
McKinney is a Chicago native and is joining CLA after most recently serving as Principal, Director of Life Sciences at Sterling Bay, where she led strategy to expand Sterling Bay’s footprint in life sciences nationwide. Prior to her role at Sterling Bay, she led the Illinois Medical District as CEO & Executive Director, where she oversaw the successful management of the district into a 24/7/365 environment with cutting-edge medical research facilities, hospitals, universities, residential and hospitality development. Prior to that, McKinney served as the Deputy Commissioner at the Chicago Department of Public Health. Suzet also serves on the Board of Directors for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and Navy Pier, among others.
Chicago Loop Alliance partnered with DSG Global's nonprofit practice (DSG | Koya), an executive search firm dedicated to mission-driven leadership. The nationwide search garnered interest from an exceptional number of leaders in urban planning, downtown management and government relations.
