The Metropolitan Council, a policymaking and planning agency that guides the strategic growth of the Twin Cities metro area, announced Ryan O’Connor has been named the next Regional Administrator for the organization.
O’Connor joins the Met Council from Ramsey County, where he has served as county manager since 2018. Prior to this experience, he also held positions as the deputy county manager and the director of policy analysis and planning for Ramsey County.
“Given Ryan’s extensive background in successfully leading regional government, I am confident he’s the right choice to lead the organization,” said Charlie Zelle, Met Council Chair. “Ryan has unmatched experience and a record of leadership in every possible aspect of planning and community engagement. I am fully confident he will represent the best interests of Minnesotans throughout the region.”
O’Connor will lead an organization of more than 4,000 employees, oversee the development of Met Council policies and programs, provide leadership in implementation, and advise the Chair and Council members on regional policy, program development, and implementation.
“It is an honor to take on the role of Regional Administrator of the Met Council,” said O’Connor. “As someone who first grew up here and has now chosen to raise a family here, I am deeply committed to the present and future success of this unique place that we call home. I look forward to working alongside federal, state, and local policymakers, dedicated public servants, regional stakeholders and individual residents, and businesses to collectively ensure equitable, efficient, and economic growth in our region for years to come.”
O’Connor’s appointment is expected to be formally approved by Met Council members on December 13.