Chicago Park District Executive and Leadership Team

Steven Lux, the Chief Financial Officer at Chicago Park District, directs all financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management activities. Steven Lux ensures the sound financial health of the organization, managing revenue streams and expenditures to support park operations and capital improvements across the city. This critical role involves overseeing accounting, treasury functions, and financial reporting to stakeholders and regulatory bodies. By implementing robust financial controls and strategies, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards public funds and maximizes the impact of investments in park infrastructure and programming. The position requires meticulous attention to financial detail and a strategic approach to resource allocation, vital for sustaining the District's extensive service offerings.

Patrick Levar, the Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Park District, oversees the daily operations and management of all park facilities and recreational programs. Patrick Levar ensures the efficient delivery of services across the extensive network of parks, driving operational excellence and maintaining high standards for public spaces. This role involves managing maintenance, safety protocols, and resource deployment to support community needs throughout Chicago. By optimizing operational workflows and implementing best practices, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the user experience for millions of park visitors annually. The position requires strategic oversight of groundskeeping, facility upkeep, and program logistics, directly impacting the accessibility and quality of recreational opportunities available to residents.

Elizabeth Tomlins, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Park District, supports the Chief Operating Officer in managing the vast operational landscape of the city's parks. Elizabeth Tomlins assists in the implementation of strategic operational plans, focusing on enhancing efficiency and service delivery across all park sites. This role involves direct oversight of specific operational units, ensuring compliance with safety standards and maintenance schedules. By collaborating with various departments, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer contributes to the seamless functioning of recreational facilities and grounds. The position requires a hands-on approach to operational challenges and a commitment to maintaining the high quality of public park experiences throughout Chicago.

Carolyn Mitchell, the President of PAC for Williams and Davis at Chicago Park District, leads advocacy efforts and community engagement initiatives. Carolyn Mitchell champions the interests of specific park areas, fostering strong relationships with residents and stakeholders to enhance local park experiences. This role involves coordinating public relations and outreach activities to support park development and programming. By mobilizing community support and facilitating dialogue, the President of PAC for Williams and Davis plays a key part in advancing the District's mission at a grassroots level. The position requires strong communication skills and a deep understanding of community needs to effectively represent park users.

Sandra Holder, the President at Chicago Park District, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire organization. Sandra Holder guides the District's vision, ensuring alignment with its mission to serve the residents of Chicago through comprehensive park management and recreational services. This pivotal role involves overseeing all major initiatives, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the fiscal responsibility and operational integrity of the District. By setting the organizational tone and driving key policy decisions, the President shapes the future of Chicago's park system. The position requires visionary leadership and a profound commitment to enhancing public spaces and community well-being across the city.

Michael Merchant, the Chief of Staff at Chicago Park District, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across departments. Overseeing critical projects, Michael Merchant ensures seamless execution of the District's overarching goals. This leadership position involves coordinating interdepartmental efforts to enhance service delivery and optimize resource allocation throughout the city's park system. By managing key stakeholder communications and supporting executive decision-making, the Chief of Staff drives efficiency and fosters a cohesive organizational structure. The role demands a deep understanding of municipal operations and a commitment to advancing the District's mission of providing exceptional recreational services and maintaining vibrant public spaces for Chicago residents.

Juliet Azimi, the Chief Administrative Officer at Chicago Park District, oversees essential administrative functions that support the District's operational and strategic objectives. Juliet Azimi manages human resources, procurement, and information technology services, ensuring the efficient functioning of internal support systems. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining organizational effectiveness and facilitating smooth business processes across all departments. By streamlining administrative procedures and fostering a productive work environment, the Chief Administrative Officer enables the District to better serve the public. The role demands expertise in organizational management and a dedication to supporting the core mission of providing exceptional park services.