Posted 16 days ago
1 MIN READ -- Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) announced President and CEO, Michael M. Edwards, will step down on March 31, 2026, following 13 years of leadership. During his tenure, Edwards helped shape the organization into an internationally recognized model for downtown activation through award-winning programming such as Sundays on State and ACTIVATE.
“While it has been an extraordinary honor to serve this organization and our city for the past 13 years, I believe it is time for new leadership,” said Michael M. Edwards, President and CEO of Chicago Loop Alliance. “Together, we have worked to shape the Loop into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically resilient district that reflects the best of Chicago.”
“As our organization closes the chapter on our 20th anniversary, it is with profound gratitude that we have had the pleasure of Michael’s leadership for 13 successful years,” said Kemena Brooks, Chicago Loop Alliance Board Chair. “As we enter a new era of the Loop, Chicago Loop Alliance’s Board of Directors is committed to a thoughtful and inclusive leadership transition that builds on Michael’s legacy while positioning Chicago Loop Alliance for continued impact.”
Throughout his tenure, Edwards was instrumental in major Loop-wide and organizational accomplishments, including:
- Expanding Chicago’s SSA #1-2015 into a full-scale special service area, with a suite of clean, safe and beautification services
- Revitalizing the Loop identity as a dynamic destination for business, culture, living, and entertainment through strategic branding and placemaking
- Creating and sustaining award-winning programming like ACTIVATE and Sundays on State, transforming underutilized public spaces and unique Loop assets into lively experiences attracting residents, workers, and visitors while supporting local artists and Loop businesses
- Leading recovery and reactivation efforts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the Loop emerged stronger through collaboration with city partners, businesses, cultural institutions, and property owners
- Integrating effective DEI practices into CLA’s strategic plan and operational strategy
- Establishing the Global Business District Innovation Club in partnership with 15 leading downtowns in Paris, Casablanca, Moscow, Tokyo, San Francisco and more.
The extended transition period is intended to support organizational continuity, strategic planning, and a smooth leadership handoff. CLA has engaged a search firm to undergo a formal, national search with the intention of onboarding a new President and CEO by April 2026. More details on the search process will be made public imminently.