John Robak

Robak is an esteemed Chicago executive who has been an influential force in the community for more than three decades. As a board member on numerous boards, his passion lies in upliftment, protection and beautification of his beloved city.

He serves as Chairman of Greeley and Hansen, a global engineering firm that specializes in water infrastructure solutions. As Chairman, he oversees all business operations for this 20-office global firm.

Early Life and Education

John Robak was born on January 15, 1915 in Connoquenessing, Pennsylvania to Anthony and Hedwig Robak.

He attended St. Joseph’s University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Subsequently, he earned both his master’s and doctorate degrees in management information systems.

In 2019, he was appointed to the board of Chicago State Foundation and serves as its chair. Additionally, he serves on multiple other organizations’ boards as well.

Robak is renowned for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to community service. As chairman and CEO of Greeley and Hansen, an international civil and environmental engineering firm, he champions diverse, equitable cultures that create opportunities for all.

Professional Career

John Robak has over three decades of professional services experience. He currently serves as CEO and member of the Board of Directors at Greeley & Hansen, a premier global engineering, architecture and consulting firm headquartered in Chicago.

He has extensive experience working on some of the world’s most significant water infrastructure projects. In his current role, he leads Greeley and Hansen’s efforts to support community initiatives that align with their mission: making the world a better place. This includes their Watermark program which strives to enhance urban water quality through innovative technologies. Furthermore, they have shown commitment towards altruistic causes in Chicago; one particularly memorable experience was serving as volunteer pilot for Air & Water Rescue Chicago which saved lives and left an indelible mark on him.

Achievements and Honors

John Robak is an accomplished entrepreneur who has built a thriving and diverse business empire. Additionally, he devotes considerable time and energy to community causes such as Chicago City Colleges, the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center and Face the Future Foundation.

John has earned numerous accolades throughout his 30-year career. Currently, he serves as CEO of Greeley and Hansen, a 20 office global civil, environmental, water infrastructure consulting engineering firm. His accomplishments include leading their growth operations in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, John serves on the board of directors for Chicago United – a public-private partnership that promotes equality in economic opportunities for multiracial leadership – plus he was selected to join NACD’s board in 2007. Additionally, John holds an MBA from Loyola University Chicago.

Personal Life

Robak has a deep-seated dedication to community service and altruistic actions. He serves on the boards of numerous organizations that strive to enhance Chicago’s quality of life for its residents.

Through his career, he has traveled the globe to understand and support the issues facing urban environments and communities worldwide. Additionally, he spearheaded company initiatives that promote better urban environments.

John Robak was recently elected chair of the Chicago State Foundation Board of Directors, succeeding Christina Steed. The Board praised Robak’s passion and dedication to education equity as well as his extensive professional and civic accomplishments.