Gretchen Robinson is a renowned attorney and a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in legal and executive positions. Since September 2019, she has served as the Vice President and General Counsel of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC), a public benefit corporation that manages Roosevelt Island, a residential and commercial neighborhood in New York City.
Robinson’s appointment to Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation executive staff in 2019 was a significant milestone for the corporation, given her extensive background in real estate, land use, and zoning law. As General Counsel, she is responsible for managing all legal affairs of RIOC and providing legal guidance to the Board of Directors, executive staff, and operational departments.
Robinson’s extensive experience in public and private legal practice makes her an invaluable asset to RIOC. Before joining RIOC, she worked as a partner at a prestigious law firm in New York City, where she represented clients in real estate, land use, and zoning matters. She has also worked as a senior attorney at the New York City Law Department and as an assistant attorney general for the State of New York.
Robinson’s dedication to public service extends beyond her role at RIOC. She is an active member of the community, serving on the board of directors of various non-profit organizations. In 2021, she was appointed to the board of directors of the Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Fund, a non-profit organization that awards grants to non-profit groups that support the island’s residents.
In addition to her legal and community work, Gretchen Robinson has played an important role in shaping the physical landscape of Roosevelt Island. In 2012, she was part of the team that designed the entrance pavilion and green roof at Jack McManus Field, a recreational facility on Roosevelt Island. The project received recognition from the American Institute of Architects for its innovative design and sustainable features.
Robinson’s contributions to RIOC and the Roosevelt Island community have not gone unnoticed. In 2019, the RIOC Board of Directors appointed her as General Counsel, acknowledging her expertise and leadership skills. Her work has also been featured in several publications, including Principal Post and IdeaMensch.