After 13 years at the helm of the Chicago Loop Alliance, the organization's president and CEO, Michael Edwards, will leave the role at the end of March.
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“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,” Edwards said in a press release. “Together, we have worked to shape the Loop into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically resilient district that reflects the best of Chicago.”
During his tenure at CLA, Edwards created and sustained programming to bring activity to the Loop, including Sundays on State and Activate. He also helped to lead recovery and reactivation efforts during and after the pandemic.
“When I arrived, the Loop was seen solely as a central business district — to work, shop and rarely live,” Edwards told Bisnow in an emailed statement. “Now, there are 45,000 people living in the Loop, despite the pandemic, the Loop is no longer just a 9-5 pm place to work.”
Edwards also helped integrate diversity, equity and inclusion practices into CLA's strategic and operational plans. He was key in establishing the Global Business District Innovation Club in partnership with 15 cities, including Paris, Moscow, Tokyo, San Francisco and Casablanca, Morocco.
CLA has tapped a firm to begin a national search for Edwards' replacement, who is expected to be onboarded by April.
The organization will acknowledge Edwards' contributions at its 2026 annual meeting in February, in addition to announcing 2026 programming, a panel discussion and board elections. The extended transition period is designed to support organizational continuity and ensure a smooth leadership handoff.
“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,” CLA Board Chair Kemena Brooks said in a press release.
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