President
Greater Milwaukee Committee | Milwaukee
Joel Brennan is president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, a private sector civic organization composed of leaders in business, education, philanthropy and the nonprofit community. Prior to joining GMC, he served as secretary of the Department of Administration under Gov. Tony Evers, where he led the agency of nearly 1,500 employees. Previously, Brennan was president and chief executive officer of Discovery World for nearly 12 years, head of Milwaukee’s Redevelopment Authority and vice president of development and government affairs for the Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau, now Visit Milwaukee.
Education: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy
Highlights from the past 12 months: “The most significant success at the Greater Milwaukee Committee over the last 12 months was our partnership with the MMAC, the city, the county and other stakeholders to bring significant new local revenue to the public sector to preserve vital community services.”
What would you like to change about Wisconsin: “A stronger focus on early learning and early childhood education that reflects an understanding on this issue and its impact on K-12 education outcomes and state workforce needs.”
Cocktail of choice: “Miller High Life, the champagne of beers.”
Playlist for commute/run: “‘Hamilton’ soundtrack, ‘Greatest Showman’ soundtrack, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor.”
2022 Wisconsin 275 Profile
Nonprofits and Education
President
Greater Milwaukee Committee | Milwaukee
Earlier this year, Joel Brennan became president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, an organization of nearly 200 CEOs and industry leaders focused on improving the civic life and economy of southeastern Wisconsin. Brennan previously was Department of Administration secretary under Gov. Tony Evers. Previously, Brennan led Discovery World in Milwaukee and was head of Milwaukee’s Redevelopment Authority.
Education: Bachelor’s, Marquette University; master’s, University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy
First job: “Fry Cook at Wong’s Wok at Summerfest and State Fair. I learned how to operate a deep fryer and have the scars to prove it.”
Favorite restaurant and meal: “Harbor House. I used to ask if I could add crab cakes to the Caesar salad, and eventually they added that dish to the menu.”
Fun fact: “Many of the relationships I developed over the years started with connections to my older siblings. (Former Milwaukee Mayor) Tom Barrett, who helped shape my career in many ways and influenced me significantly, dated one of my older sisters in high school. Frank Gimbel, who has been a friend and mentor, hired my older brother right out of law school to practice criminal law. Roy Reiman, who provided support and guidance throughout my tenure at Discovery World, employed my father more than 30 years ago.”
Why you’re excited for the future: “I am excited about a crop of young leaders who can propel us into a stronger and brighter future.”
