Pittsburgh Business Times: Pittsburgh Power 100 2024: Connectors

The Power 100, a listing of the region’s most influential business leaders, is being presented by categories this year. Here are Connectors.

Connectors are everywhere. They are the often behind-the-scenes players who drive business decisions and whose influence extends well beyond their given industries.

Rich Fitzgerald

Executive Director, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission appointed Rich Fitzgerald as its executive director in November 2023 — a role he assumed in January. He brings a wealth of leadership experience to the federally certified metropolitan planning organization. Following his 12-year tenure as Allegheny County executive, Fitzgerald now oversees the strategic growth of the region through collaborative planning and decision-making. By leading the SPC, he will direct a team of 50 staff members across seven departments that are focused on economic and workforce development, transportation planning, strategic initiatives and others. His connections with stakeholders throughout the region mixed with his extensive executive leadership background, including founding a water treatment services company prior to his stint as county exec, position Fitzgerald as a key player in shaping public investment plans and programs. Throughout his career, Fitzgerald has prioritized economic diversification, infrastructure investment and improving public services, emphasizing his commitment to the region’s prosperity.

View the full article at bizjournals.com.