Leaders have a gift for seeing our world as it could be, and the best leaders have the passion and dedication to bring that future into being. Deb Janik has dedicated over 35 years to transforming Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio through her extensive work in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Her career is marked by a range of leadership roles that have shaped the region’s growth and development. 

Deb recently launched CivicPoint Development Partners LLC, where, as President and Founder, she continues her lifelong commitment to advancing real estate, business, and workforce development investments both within Ohio and across the country. 

Prior to founding CivicPoint, Deb was Senior Vice President of Business Development for Bedrock, overseeing the implementation of the company’s Cleveland real estate development projects and programs. At Bedrock, she led major initiatives such as the Cuyahoga Riverfront Master Development and the Rock Block property in the Gateway District, drawing upon her longstanding cross-sector relationships to propel Bedrock’s developments in Cleveland’s central business district and contributing significantly to the city’s growth and prosperity. 

Before joining Bedrock, Deb served as Senior Vice President of Real Estate and Business Development at the Greater Cleveland Partnership. She managed the organization’s real estate, business, and economic development programs, spearheaded regional collaboration efforts, and facilitated catalytic economic development projects throughout Greater Cleveland. 

Deb’s commitment to public service spans more than 13 years, primarily with the City of Cleveland. Her tenure began in 1988 and culminated in her service as Chief of Staff and Chief Development Officer for Mayor Jane L. Campbell from 2002 to 2005. Deb was also a member of Mayor Michael R. White’s executive team. 

Deb currently serves on several boards and committees, including Cleveland Development Advisors and the Cuyahoga County Convention Facilities Development Corporation. 

She is a graduate of Kent State University, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance with a concentration in Real Estate. Deb’s achievements have been recognized with honors such as Crain’s Cleveland 2024 Woman of Note, Cleveland Magazine Cleveland 500, and Globe Street’s Women of Influence, Development in 2024. Deb and her family reside in Rocky River, Ohio. 

We are thrilled to designate Deb as our 2026 PAN Award recipient and to recognize her exceptional service to our community. We look forward to celebrating her on September 19!