In a move signaling a further commitment to Detroit's resurgence, Mayor Mike Duggan has elevated several individuals within the city’s administration, including the appointment of Marcus von Kapff as the new Chief Operating Officer. Marcus von Kapff, who holds an impressive track record from his tenure at JPMorgan Chase and an international business background, stepped into his role on October 21 and will be at the helm of key departments such as the Detroit Water & Sewerage Department and the Department of Innovation & Technology among others, as reported by the City of Detroit.
Exploring von Kapff's professional journey reveals a potent mix of financial expertise and a knack for expansive growth, his former role as CFO of JPMorgan's Commercial Bank saw the business's revenue climb to a staggering $10B and the staff count swelled to 13,000, handling strategy, finance, sales, and operations. Mayor Duggan has expressed his belief in von Kapff's conviction for public service despite lucrative alternatives, stating, via the City of Detroit, “With his level of experience and accomplishment, Marcus could have gone anywhere and made a lot of money, but his heart drew him to Detroit and public service,” underscoring his potential as a significant asset to the city's administration.
Accompanying the high-profile COO appointment, several staff promotions were announced; Andrea Taverna has ascended to Deputy Chief Operating Officer, having played a pivotal role in policy and implementation in the Mayor's Office while Timothy Stark has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff, his previous position being Policy Advisor. Two new Group Executives have also been named, Jessica Parker for Public Services and LaJuan Counts for Construction & Building Operations; Parker's contributions to the city include driving the Detroit NFL Draft hosting while Counts has been instrumental in managing demolition projects and construction programs such as the eradication of long-standing vacant homes across Detroit.
