Who was your favorite CEO of Roosevelt Island? Think you could do better? Now might be your chance to prove it—because the RIOC CEO search is officially on! The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has launched a public search for its next President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), opening a rare window for someone to help shape the future of this unique and vibrant community.
This high-impact leadership role isn’t just about running a public agency—it’s about stewarding an entire island’s spirit. The position offers both a competitive salary and the chance to serve a community full of heart, history, and promise. If you’ve ever dreamed of building a legacy that blends public service, infrastructure, and community development, this is your moment. Learn more or apply here: President/Chief Executive Officer Job Listing.
🏛️ A Brief History of RIOC’s Leaders
Every chapter in the RIOC CEO search has brought someone new to the table—with different leadership styles, priorities, and visions for Roosevelt Island. Now, for the first time, RIOC is conducting an executive search using a professional recruitment firm, signaling a more formal and far-reaching approach to finding its next leader. If you’ve ever dreamed of guiding a one-of-a-kind community and leaving a lasting mark, this is your opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Here’s a look at those who stepped into the spotlight:
- Robert Ryan (1990–1995): As one of the early leaders of RIOC, Robert Ryan played a pivotal role in establishing the corporation’s foundational operations, focusing on infrastructure development and fostering community engagement.
- Jerold Posman (1995–1999): Jerold Posman emphasized financial stability and strategic planning, ensuring that RIOC’s resources were effectively allocated to benefit the island’s residents.
- Herbert Berman (2001–2007): A former NYC Councilman, Herbert Berman brought political insight to RIOC, strengthening relationships between the island and city agencies.
- Stephen Shane (2007–2012): Stephen Shane focused on enhancing public services and transparency, notably initiating the modernization of the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
- Leslie Torres (2010–2012): Leslie Torres served as President of RIOC, and during her tenure, she focused on various community initiatives. She resigned in September 2012 following investigations into misuse of resources.
- Charlene Indelicato (2013–2016): With a background in urban planning, Charlene Indelicato prioritized infrastructure upgrades and sustainable development on the island.
- Susan Rosenthal (2016–2020): Susan Rosenthal’s tenure saw significant modernization efforts, including park revitalizations and community programs. Her departure in 2020 was marked by controversy, as detailed in The Roosevelt Island Daily.
Shelton J. Haynes (2020–2024)
Shelton J. Haynes stepped into the RIOC presidency during a particularly turbulent moment, first as interim before officially taking the helm. His transition into leadership was marked by concerns around transparency, which led many community members to view the appointment with hesitation. Despite the rocky start, Haynes went on to champion several initiatives aimed at improving island life—from revitalizing public spaces to supporting community programs and expanding digital access. Now, with the current Roosevelt Island CEO search being conducted openly and through a professional search firm, there’s a renewed sense of optimism. The public process offers hope for a fresh chapter built on trust, collaboration, and community-first leadership.
While his leadership style drew both praise and criticism, Haynes undeniably brought energy and visibility to the role. His administration made efforts to modernize RIOC’s public image and improve responsiveness, even as concerns around transparency and internal culture persisted. His departure in late 2024 marked a significant shift in direction for the agency. You can read more about that chapter in The Roosevelt Island Daily’s coverage.
🌟 What Comes Next?
With the RIOC CEO search now underway, Roosevelt Island has a fresh chance to reimagine leadership. This is more than a job—it’s a legacy in the making. Past presidents brought heart, hustle, and sometimes a bit of controversy, but all played a part in shaping the Island we call home today.
Could the next chapter be written by someone you know? Maybe even… you?
If you were in charge, what would be your first big move as RIOC CEO? Let us know in the comments—or better yet, tag someone who should apply!
Ever dreamed of being a CEO and a President… and getting paid more than the Governor, with an incredible benefits package to match? Now’s your moment. The office is calling you, Madam (or Mr.) President. 🏛️✨
Stop searching for reasons not to apply. Become the next President of these United Island. 😉
The Well-Funded Vision and the Silent Landlord
RIOC’s Real Estate Development Advisory Committee met last night. The Renwick Ruin was not on the agenda. A nonprofit that has spent eight years developing detailed plans for the site, raised more than a million dollars, and assembled a board with serious finance and legal credentials continues its work.
