Chicago Construction News staff writer
Mark Skender, the former CEO of Skender Construction and a trailblazer in Chicago’s construction industry, has passed away, the company announced in a statement. He was widely respected for his visionary leadership and decades-long commitment to innovation, community, and collaboration in the built environment.
kender served as CEO of the Chicago-based firm from 2014 to 2020, following a 25-year tenure as Executive Vice President. Over more than three decades, he helped shape Skender Construction into one of the city’s most community-driven construction companies.
“Mark was more than a leader – he was a visionary who helped shape the future of our company and our industry,” the company wrote in an obituary. “His influence lives on in the buildings he helped bring to life and in the people and teams he inspired every day.”
Skender was a pioneering advocate for lean construction practices and an early adopter of construction technologies aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability. He co-founded the Lean Construction Institute’s Chicago Community of Practice and also shared his insights as an adjunct professor at Northwestern University.
Colleagues remember him as a steady, generous leader with an unwavering belief in the power of innovation and teamwork. His leadership style emphasized transparency, collaboration, and a long-term commitment to people and process.
Beyond his professional legacy, Skender was known for his passion for travel and global connection. He served for many years on the board of Hostelling International, a nonprofit committed to cultural exchange and travel accessibility.
Skender is survived by his wife, Roxanne, and children, Elena and Daniel. The company and his loved ones invite those wishing to honor his memory to make donations in his name to Hostelling International USA. Contributions can be made online at www.hiusa.org/donations.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, his many friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the company’s statement concluded. “He will be deeply missed.”
