The Illinois business community is mourning the loss of one of its most prominent and influential leaders, Todd Maisch, who died on Thursday at the age of 57. Maisch was the president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, a position he held since 2014. He had been on leave from the organization since last month due to an illness. No cause of death was given.
A Champion for Business
Maisch joined the Illinois Chamber of Commerce in 1994 as a lobbyist and rose through the ranks to become its chief executive officer two decades later. He was widely respected for his advocacy for the business community and his ability to find common ground between adversaries across political lines.
According to Chicago Sun-Times, state officials remembered Maisch as a “champion” for business who worked tirelessly to promote economic growth and job creation in Illinois. Governor J.B. Pritzker said in a statement that Maisch was “a fierce advocate for Illinois businesses who always sought to build bridges and find solutions.” House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch said that Maisch was “a friend and a partner” who “always put the interests of Illinois first.”
Maisch was also praised by his counterparts in other states and at the national level. Todd McCracken, president and CEO of the National Small Business Association, said that Maisch was “a leader among leaders” who had “a tremendous impact on the small-business community.” Rob Engstrom, senior vice president of political affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said that Maisch was “a giant in the chamber world” who “leaves behind a legacy of service and accomplishment.”
A Legacy of Achievement
Under Maisch’s leadership, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce achieved several legislative victories and policy initiatives that benefited the state’s business climate. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
- Securing the passage of a $45 billion capital plan in 2019 that funded infrastructure projects across the state.
- Supporting the enactment of a comprehensive energy bill in 2016 that preserved nuclear power plants and expanded renewable energy sources.
- Advocating for tax reforms that reduced the corporate income tax rate and eliminated some business fees.
- Opposing policies that would have imposed higher costs or regulations on businesses, such as a progressive income tax amendment, a minimum wage hike, and a workers’ compensation overhaul.
- Launching programs that promoted workforce development, innovation, and international trade, such as the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition, the Technology and Innovation Council, and the Export Advisory Council.
Maisch also played a key role in helping businesses cope with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He worked closely with state officials to provide guidance and resources to businesses on how to operate safely and effectively during the crisis. He also advocated for federal relief funds and state grants to support struggling businesses.
A Life Well Lived
Maisch was born in Springfield, Illinois, and graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in political science. He began his career as a legislative aide for former state Senator Judy Baar Topinka. He later worked as a lobbyist for several organizations, including the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association.
Maisch was married to his wife Lisa for 32 years and had two sons, Tyler and Tanner. He was an avid golfer, fisherman, and hunter. He also enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with his family and friends.
Maisch’s family said in a statement that he was “a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend” who “lived life to the fullest.” They also thanked everyone who supported him during his illness and expressed their gratitude for his contributions to Illinois.
A memorial service for Maisch will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Todd Maisch Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln. The fund will support causes that were important to Maisch, such as education, health care, and conservation.
