Friends Applauds New MWRD Executive Director

Friends of the Chicago River applauds the recent appointment of John P. Murray as executive director of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD). Murray, who had served as acting executive director since March, steps into the role with more than two decades of water industry experience and a distinguished career within MWRD, including key leadership posts in Maintenance and Operations and Stormwater Management.

A licensed professional engineer, Murray holds degrees from Purdue University and the Illinois Institute of Technology. As executive director, he will oversee wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and resource recovery for the more than 5 million residents of Chicago and 128 surrounding municipalities, leading a workforce of roughly 1,800 employees.

Friends of the Chicago River Executive Director Margaret Frisbie welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership in regional water management.

“We look forward to working with John Murray as he steps into this critical role,” Frisbie said. “His deep knowledge of the system and long history of public service are tremendous assets for the river system and the communities and wildlife it supports.”

Friends looks forward to continued collaboration with the MWRD under Murray’s leadership to advance water quality improvements, climate resilience, and a healthier, more vibrant Chicago-Calumet River system for all.