James Capalino

Jim Capalino is recognized as one of New York’s premier urban problem-solving strategists. His background combines senior management roles in government, public relations, real estate, and construction management, with extensive public sector experience at senior levels of New York City government. Jim’s government career began in 1972 when he joined the staff of Congressman Edward I. Koch. In 1977, he co-managed the mayoral campaign of Congressman Koch when he was elected the 105th Mayor of the City of New York. He was named Commissioner of General Services, a 2,000+ employee, $750 million agency, at the age of 28 and is still, the youngest commissioner in City’s history. Jim managed the Mayor’s successful third term re-election, which he won by the largest margin in the City’s history. Jim holds an M.A. in Management and Urban Affairs from the New School University, and a B.A. in Political Science, cum laude, from Colgate University. He is a founding member of the Board of Directors of Friends of the High Line and currently sits on the board. He and his wife of 38 years have 3 children and reside in Manhattan, New York.