Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson names new chief financial officer

August 12, 2026 - 07:26

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the appointment of a new chief financial officer on Monday, moving to fill a key vacancy on his fiscal team just months before the city enters its fourth budget cycle under his administration. Ashlee Gabrysch takes over the role, bringing experience from both the public and private sectors, though details of her previous positions were not immediately expanded upon by the mayor's office.

The hire leaves one remaining open spot on the mayor's financial leadership roster, a gap that has drawn attention from aldermen and civic watchdogs as the city faces projected shortfalls and ongoing pension obligations. Gabrysch steps in as Johnson prepares to present a spending plan for 2026, a process that has historically been contentious, with City Council members demanding more transparency on revenue projections and spending priorities.

In a brief statement, Johnson praised Gabrysch's track record in budget management and her ability to navigate complex financial systems. She replaces the previous CFO, who departed earlier this year for reasons the administration did not detail. The appointment does not require City Council approval, but aldermen are likely to scrutinize her approach to closing budget gaps without raising property taxes, a pledge Johnson has repeated. Gabrysch is expected to start immediately, with her first major test coming in August when preliminary budget forecasts are due.