Gregory McDuffee, executive director of the Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority, has announced his retirement effective this December.
His career began with the authority as an appointed commissioner serving from January 2002 through September 2005, followed by selection as executive director in September 2005. As executive director, McDuffee managed the 745,000-square-foot Coleman A. Young Municipal Center.
“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Detroit and Wayne County at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center for more than seventeen years,” says McDuffee. “As Executive Director, I have been blessed with a wonderful management team and the outstanding leadership of the Board of Commission members, past and present. I look forward to more travel, special projects, and spending time with family.”
Under his leadership, the authority has transformed its governance and operating model, reducing operating expenses by 50 percent. It has been awarded the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International TOBY Award for Outstanding Building of the Year, four local and regional TOBY Awards, the BOMA 360 Designation, and 14 EPA Energy Star designations.
Before his tenure with the authority, his career spans more than 30 years in various positions, including vice president of the SmithGroup, where he directed the firm’s real estate consulting practice.
The authority board of commissioners will conduct a national search for the executive director who reports to the three-person body. McDuffee will assist in identifying candidates.
“Gregg has led the Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority to national prominence in public facilities. The CAYMAC is widely recognized as one of the best-run municipal buildings in the United States and has received numerous awards to that fact,” says Sharon Madison, chair of the authority. “We are deeply grateful for his work and service on behalf of the citizens of Detroit and Wayne County. Commissioners Carter, Scott, and I wish Gregg the best as he enters this new and exciting phase of his life.”
