Richard Ravitch Biography

Richard Ravitch is a true problem solver with a career spanning 60 years. He worked in both business and government. He is known for taking on some of the most complex challenges facing New York City and the state. After working briefly for the House of Representatives, Ravitch began his career in his family's construction business, building high-profile projects like the Whitney Museum and Citicorp Center. However, his primary focus was on building over 40,000 units of affordable housing, including the first racially integrated apartment complex in Washington, D.C. Ravitch's success in the private sector led him to a life of public service. In 1975, he was asked by then-New York Governor Hugh Carey to rescue the New York State Urban Development Corporation from bankruptcy. That same year, Ravitch was instrumental in averting New York City's bankruptcy. Throughout his career, he divided his time between public service and private enterprise. He served as chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, chaired a commission that rewrote the Charter of the City of New York, and became chief labor negotiator for Major League Baseball. In 2008, Governor David Paterson appointed Ravitch Lieutenant Governor and asked him to make recommendations regarding the state's budgeting plan. Ravitch found that years of fiscal denial had left New York State in a post-financial-crisis meltdown. He became a vocal advocate for investing in the physical and human infrastructure needed to help the state and the country thrive. Ravitch's message about budgetary pressures from Medicaid, pension promises to public employees, and deceptive budgeting and borrowing practices deserves immediate attention from public officials and private citizens.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Richard Ravitch's expertise is in high demand. To book Richard Ravitch for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Richard Ravitch's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Richard Ravitch's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Richard Ravitch for your next speaking engagement.