Jon Talty is OKW Architects’ CEO and fearless leader. He is responsible for the day-to-day management of the business, helping to develop and institutionalize the company’s vision and mission, and articulate and promote the company values throughout the organization. As a principal and leader in a variety of market segments, Jon helps to drive the firm’s objective to seek and develop meaningful relationships with the individuals and organizations they serve. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Jon worked as an architect and in commercial real estate prior to joining Otis Associates in 1990 as its Director of Marketing. In 1992, Jon became a partner of the firm and was elected President and CEO in 1995. He retained the role when Otis merged with Koglin Wilson to become OKW and, in 2007, assumed the role of Chairman & CEO.

Jon is engaged in a number of community and cultural affairs in and around his hometown of Winnetka and maintains a close connection to his alma mater. In addition, he currently serves on the Management and Advisory Boards of the Chicago Chapter of the Urban Land Institute. Since 2019, Jon has also served as President of the Chicago Commonwealth Club. In addition, Jon serves on the Parents Leadership Council at Fordham University and works in support of The Geneva Foundation of the Presbyterian Homes in Evanston, Illinois.

If I were not an architect, I would be: A winemaker in Napa

My proudest achievement: My two daughters, Greer and Jane, who make every day special

Favorite Place(s): Piazza Navona, Rockefeller Center, ND Stadium or on the First Tee