DETROIT – Big changes are coming to Eastern Market in 2026 as long-time CEO Dan Carmody will retire as of New Year’s Eve.
Long-time CEO Dan Carmody will retire as of New Year’s Eve.
Carmody will be succeeded by the current Eastern Market President, Katy Trudeau.
The retirement marks the end of an era of transformative growth and impact under his leadership.
She previously worked with Detroit’s Housing & Revitalization and Planning Departments, including as Deputy Director of Planning.
Local 4 was told that the new leadership would still heavily focus on small business growth and cultural connection.
Trudeau will bring nearly two decades of leadership experience across the nonprofit and public sectors to the helm of Detroit’s iconic public market.
Carmody’s tenure since 2007 has transformed Eastern Market into a driving force for Detroit’s food economy and a critical hub for food access, small business growth, and cultural connection.
Under his leadership, Eastern Market has grown as an economic and community driver, continuing its longstanding role as a vital part of Detroit.
Trudeau, appointed president in 2023, is said to be deeply committed to community-driven development.
She championed new ideas for a more inclusive and equitable Detroit through her work in Detroit’s Housing & Revitalization and Planning departments, including as Deputy Director of Planning.
Trudeau’s leadership at Eastern Market will continue to be committed to ensuring that it remains a vibrant, inclusive, and influential part of Detroit’s future.
The announcement followed Eastern Market’s launch of its “Authentic Eastern Market” campaign, a multi-year effort to safeguard and strengthen the market’s role as an inclusive space for healthy food access and economic opportunity.
The campaign, announced in September, aims to preserve Eastern Market’s unique identity while positioning it for a future of sustained impact.
Building on its proud legacy of community engagement and economic opportunity, the transition marks a new chapter for Eastern Market.
As always, Eastern Market remains committed to Detroit’s future and its role as a cornerstone of community resilience and growth.
For more on how to support the Authentic Eastern Market Campaign or to stay updated on Eastern Market’s upcoming events, visit Eastern Market.