World Business Chicago CEO Michael Fassnacht resigns

Catch up fast: Fassnacht took over as interim CEO of WBC in 2020, while also serving as the city's first-ever chief marketing officer, before being named permanent head in 2021.

• As part of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's administration, Fassnacht was tasked with getting Chicago back on track after pandemic closings.

Context: Fassnacht moved into the public sector from the advertising world, previously serving as head of Chicago agency FCB.

What they're saying: "Over the last four years, I enjoyed every single minute of my work, through all the ups and downs. Now it's time for a change. But I won't change my love for and dedication to Chicago," Fassnacht tells Axios.

• "I extend my deepest appreciation to Michael for his exceptional leadership, which has elevated our city as a hub for business and contributed to our economic revitalization," Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement.

What's next: Fassnacht will stay on as CEO until a new leader is tapped, which WBC is optimistic will happen by February. He'll remain on WBC's board of directors, according to a release.