CHICAGO – Mayor Brandon Johnson named Michael McMurray to lead the Chicago Department of Aviation as commissioner today. McMurray brings over 25 years of experience in transportation and infrastructure, serving most recently as the President of Transportation and Infrastructure and Managing Director of Wight & Company, a multidisciplinary architectural, engineering, transportation and construction firm for the Chicago office. 

“Mike McMurray’s extensive experience in both the private and public sector will serve us well during this transformative period for our airports,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Mike brings a deep expertise in all areas critical to our airports’ success. His background in procurement, construction, and law are exactly what we need to navigate the challenges and opportunities that our airports present for the city. I look forward to working alongside him and our partners to enhance our airports and strengthen Chicago’s position as a world-class destination for visitors and residents alike.” 

“I’m honored to lead the Chicago Department of Aviation at such a pivotal time,” Michael McMurray said. “Having worked in both the public and private sectors, I understand the complexity and importance of our airport system to Chicago’s economy and global standing. I’m committed to building upon the strong foundation established by my predecessor while bringing fresh perspectives to ensure that our airports continue to serve as an international model of excellence and innovation.” 

“As Chicago’s hometown airline, our entire team at United is thrilled to welcome Mike McMurray, and we look forward to working closely with him as we continue building on our record growth here at O'Hare,” said Brett J. Hart, President of United Airlines. “As we prepare to break ground on the new terminal redevelopment program at O’Hare — a once-in-a-generation investment — Mike’s leadership will be essential as we work collectively to deliver a modernized airport for the millions of Chicagoans and the travelers who visit this world-class city.” 

“American Airlines congratulates Mike McMurray on his appointment to Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner,” said Nathan Gatten, American Airlines Executive Vice President, American Eagle, Corporate Real Estate and Government Affairs. “We have a long history of serving Chicago and key to our continued success is a strong partnership with the Mayor’s Office and CDA. We look forward to working with Mike and his team to strengthen the only dual-hub in the nation — keeping Chicago at the center of the world for business and tourism and ensuring O’Hare thrives well into the future.” 

“We congratulate Michael McMurray on his appointment to lead the Chicago Department of Aviation,” said Steve Sisneros, Vice President of Airport Affairs at Southwest Airlines. “For more than 40 years, Southwest has proudly served Chicago travelers, connecting them to the people and places that matter most in their lives. As one of the few airlines serving both Midway and O’Hare, we look forward to working together with Commissioner McMurray to build a stronger local aviation industry – one that not only supports travelers but also the more than six thousand Southwest Employees who live and work in Chicago.” 

At Wight & Company, McMurray guided the firm’s efforts to address the region’s growing need for innovative solutions to complex transportation and infrastructure projects. He oversaw all strategic planning, led engagement in securing pivotal partnerships, and drove growth initiatives.  

“Mike McMurray and I share a commitment not only to making Chicago’s airports the best and safest in the world but also to strengthening their role as economic engines for the region,” said Matt O’Shea, Chairman of the City Council Aviation Committee and 19th Ward Alderman. “I know him to be a person of integrity and look forward to working with him to benefit the people of Chicago and the millions of people across the world who come to our city.” 

As an attorney, McMurray has practiced law in the public and private sectors, notably in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office as Assistant State’s Attorney, the U.S. Social Security Administration as Assistant Regional Counsel, and the United Auto Workers as Senior Counsel. He is licensed to practice law in Illinois and retains membership in the American, Chicago and Cook County Bar Associations. 

McMurray’s extensive private sector business expertise is coupled with a deep understanding of city government, serving as former Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Aviation, Managing Deputy Commissioner for the Department of General Services, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Procurement Services and Contract Compliance Officer. 

McMurray is an active community member engaging in several civil and charitable organizations, including the Lawndale Christian Development Corporation as a member of the Board of Directors, Chicago Entrepreneurial Center (1871), the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Adler Planetarium. His civic affiliations also include the Economic Club of Chicago and Commercial Club of Chicago, where he serves on the Civic Committee’s Transportation Task Force, the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials, the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois, and the American Association of Airport Executives. is also the former Local School Chair Chairperson of Mark T. Skinner West Elementary School. 

McMurray graduated from Northwestern University, where he was a Chicago Urban Field’s Studies Fellow and earned his Bachelor of Arts, and the University of Michigan, where he received his Juris Doctorate. His successful career has earned him various awards and distinctions, including recognition as one of Crain’s Chicago Business’s 2021 Notable Black Leaders and Executives and the Chicago United Business Leader of Color Award in 2015. 

The appointment requires City Council confirmation. 

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