CHICAGO – Today Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the retirement of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) Commissioner Kenneth J. Meyer.

Over a career of more than 30 years serving the City of Chicago, Commissioner Meyer has been known for his approach to problem solving and his varied experience across several City departments. Ken championed efficient and pragmatic solutions to advance Chicago's economic vibrancy.

"Commissioner Meyer's dedication to the City of Chicago is unparalleled. His tireless commitment to fostering economic growth, protecting consumers and workers, and supporting our business community has made a lasting impact on our city," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "We are profoundly grateful for his years of exemplary service. As he embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we celebrate the mark he leaves on Chicago."

As BACP Commissioner, Ken worked closely with members of the business community, consumer protection advocates, and workers to pioneer numerous policies and initiatives. Ken helped to establish the Office of Labor Standards which, under his stewardship, has become a case study of what municipal worker protection offices should look like. Ken devised ways to regulate emerging economic sectors such as shared housing, rideshare, and shared scooters. Ken worked across government and industry to devise smart regulations and ensure that these new industries generated sustainable city revenues and served the interests of Chicagoans. Ken oversaw the streamlining of regulatory processes to make it easier for businesses to get their licenses and open their doors faster. 

“Serving the City of Chicago for over three decades has been the honor of a lifetime. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated colleagues and community partners," said Chicago Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Commissioner Meyer. "Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones, and I leave with immense pride in what we have accomplished for the people of Chicago through a collaborative approach. Thank you for the opportunity."

Prior to becoming BACP Commissioner, Ken served as BACP First Deputy Commissioner. In that role, he directed day-to-day-operations, spearheaded cross-departmental projects, managed department budgeting and financial forecasting, and developed human resource operating procedures and policies. Before joining BACP, Ken served as the Chief of Staff for the Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB) for four years. Prior to his position with DOB, he worked in the Office of the Mayor for 13 years where he coordinated intergovernmental lobbying with the Chicago City Council, the Illinois General Assembly, and the United States Congress. He has worked under four Chicago mayoral administrations.

Ken leaves a legacy of engagement and inclusion among businesses, workers, and consumers. On behalf of the City of Chicago, I thank him for his years of service and congratulate him on a well-deserved retirement.