Houston, we have a new leader! Mayor John Whitmire has named Randy Macchi as the new Director of Houston Public Works, putting the city’s largest accredited public works agency in the capable hands of a seasoned executive, attorney, and leadership innovator. This appointment not only marks a new chapter for Houston’s infrastructure but also a shift toward a visionary approach in public service leadership.

With 24 years of experience as a corporate executive and attorney, Macchi brings a wealth of expertise and a reputation for getting things done. Having served as Houston Public Works’ Chief Operating Officer (COO) since March 2023, and co-leading the department since April 2024, Macchi is no stranger to the challenges of running an organization responsible for everything from water management to traffic systems in a bustling metropolis like Houston.  

“Randy Macchi has proven himself to be a problem solver and a decisive leader,” Mayor Whitmire stated at the city council meeting. “When Hurricane Beryl and the derecho storm hit, Randy was front and center, steering the department through emergencies with a calm and steady hand. His ability to resolve issues during crises and keep the city moving forward makes him the perfect choice for this role. I’m excited to see what he’ll accomplish for Houstonians in the years ahead.”

 

 

A Modern Approach to Leadership

Macchi’s resume reads like a handbook for leadership excellence.  graduate of the University of Houston Law Center, with a Juris Doctorate, and Brigham Young University, with a Bachelor of Arts, he has also been inducted into the prestigious National Order of Barristers. Beyond his legal and corporate achievements, Macchi is a certified Mediator, an award-winning public speaker, and a leadership development coach—a skill set that underscores his ability to inspire teams and foster collaboration.

“This appointment is an honor and a responsibility I don’t take lightly,” Macchi shared. “The 3,900 public servants within Houston Public Works are the backbone of this city, ensuring that our water runs, our streets are maintained, and our infrastructure supports Houston’s growth. Together, we’ll rise to meet the challenges ahead and deliver meaningful, lasting change.”

Breaking Barriers with a New Vision  

Macchi’s appointment comes on the heels of a bold decision by the City Council. In a unanimous vote, the council approved an ordinance change that removed the requirement for the Houston Public Works Director to be a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). This amendment, supported by local and state organizations, broadens the pool of candidates for the position, prioritizing leadership, expertise, and vision over technical credentials.  

Macchi’s leadership style reflects this forward-thinking approach. By working closely with the City Engineer, who will oversee engineering-specific decisions, he’s poised to focus on the bigger picture—streamlining operations, modernizing infrastructure, and ensuring that Houston Public Works continues to serve as a national model for innovation and efficiency.  

“This change isn’t about lowering standards,” Macchi explained. “It’s about recognizing that public works is as much about leadership and strategy as it is about technical expertise. This collaboration between leaders and engineers will allow us to tackle complex challenges with creativity and precision.”

The Road Ahead

Macchi steps into his new role during a pivotal time for Houston. The city’s rapid growth and vulnerability to extreme weather events like hurricanes and derechos demand a public works department that is both resilient and forward-looking. Under Macchi’s leadership, Houstonians can expect a focus on infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but anticipates tomorrow’s challenges.

Mayor Whitmire emphasized the importance of this vision:  

 _“Houston deserves a public works leader who can think big, act fast, and deliver results. Randy Macchi is that leader.”_

As Macchi takes the reins, his agenda includes strengthening the city’s water systems, enhancing flood mitigation efforts, and modernizing Houston’s transportation infrastructure. But perhaps most importantly, his leadership promises a culture of collaboration, innovation, and transparency—a winning formula for a city as dynamic as Houston.

Why It Matters

Houston Public Works is more than just a department—it’s the lifeline of the city. From maintaining safe drinking water to managing street repairs and drainage systems, the agency’s work impacts every Houstonian, every day. With Macchi at the helm, the future of Houston’s infrastructure looks brighter than ever.

For residents, this leadership change isn’t just a headline—it’s a promise of progress. Whether it’s navigating post-storm recovery or preparing for the next phase of the city’s growth, Macchi’s leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on Houston.

The Takeaway

Randy Macchi’s appointment signals a new era for Houston Public Works—one defined by visionary leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. As the city continues to evolve, Houstonians can look forward to a public works department that’s as innovative and resilient as the city it serves.

For updates on Houston Public Works initiatives and Randy Macchi’s leadership journey, stay tuned to Houston Public Works official website.