Taft partners Graham Grady and Derrick Thompson, Jr. have been named to the Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2024 Notable Black Leaders list. Honorees are Black professionals serving in senior leadership roles in the Chicago area, representing all industries and communities. They have achieved significant success within their profession and civic and community organizations.

Read Graham and Derrick’s profiles here (subscription required).

Grady advises real estate developers, investors, and property owners on land use entitlements and economic incentives. He helps secure necessary approvals and land developments in the Chicago metropolitan area and throughout the Midwest. Grady formerly served as the City of Chicago Zoning Administrator and Commissioner of Buildings. He currently serves on the board of directors of World Business Chicago and was selected to join the American College of Real Estate Lawyers.

Thompson is a partner in Taft’s Litigation and Intellectual Property groups. He has extensive experience as lead trial counsel in a broad range of litigation including contract and licensing disputes; intellectual property disputes with a focus on trademark infringement and trade secret; trust actions; and sports and entertainment disputes. Thompson also serves as Special Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago in civil cases.