Penny Pritzker

Penny Pritzker is an American businesswoman, entrepreneur, and civic leader with over 30 years of experience across various industries, making her a formidable partner for brands seeking seasoned leadership and strategic insight. After founding Classic Residence by Hyatt (later Vi) in 1987, a luxury senior living concept, Penny Pritzker went on to establish Pritzker Realty Group in 1991, focusing on real estate development. Her early leadership included serving as chairperson of Superior Bank of Chicago from 1991 to 1994. In 1995, she was named one of three successors to Jay Pritzker, overseeing the family’s extensive business assets and navigating complex interests, which included overseeing the dissolution of some family holdings in 2001.

As a key member of Obama’s economic team, Pritzker focused on promoting trade, investment, and innovation, notably advocating for the Trans-Pacific Partnership, establishing the Digital Economy Board of Advisors, and leading negotiations for the E.U.–U.S. Privacy Shield. Following her government service, she returned to the private sector and her investment firms. In 2018, Pritzker was elected to the Harvard Corporation, subsequently becoming Senior Fellow of the Harvard Corporation in 2022.

Most recently, in 2023, she was appointed U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine’s Economic Recovery by President Joe Biden, serving in this critical role until August 2024. Pritzker continues to be a formidable partner for brands seeking seasoned leadership and strategic insight across various industries.