Councilman Ashfaq Syed: A Story of Leadership, Service, and Purpose-Driven Governance

In an era when local leadership defines the quality of everyday civic life, Ashfaq Syed stands out as a compelling example of purpose-driven public service. With a career that bridges global finance, entrepreneurship, and grassroots community leadership, Councilman Syed’s journey to the Naperville City Council reflects a rare blend of professional excellence, civic empathy, and a deeply rooted commitment to inclusive growth.

An eight-year resident of Naperville, Syed ran for City Council with a clear and thoughtful platform: responsible development, sustainability, public safety, and unwavering support for local businesses. These pillars are not campaign slogans but lived priorities—shaped by decades of leadership experience and years of active community engagement. Today, as his current term runs through 2029, Councilman Syed continues to help steer Naperville toward a future that is fiscally responsible, environmentally conscious, and socially inclusive.

From Global Finance to Local Impact

Councilman Syed’s professional journey spans more than 25 years in the highly competitive world of banking and finance. Armed with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Osmania University, he built a career that took him across continents and institutions, serving in leadership roles at some of the most respected banks in the global financial ecosystem.

His career includes senior roles at Times Bank, ICICI Bank, RAKBANK, BMO Harris Bank, and Hanmi Bank, where he served as Vice President. In these roles, Syed developed deep expertise in risk management, strategic growth, compliance, and customer-centric financial solutions. This exposure to global best practices and regulatory frameworks has profoundly influenced his approach to governance—particularly in areas of fiscal discipline, long-term planning, and accountability.

Beyond corporate leadership, Syed is also a small business owner, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and local enterprises. This dual perspective—corporate and entrepreneurial—uniquely positions him to advocate for policies that encourage innovation while safeguarding economic stability. His understanding of capital access, regulatory hurdles, and market volatility directly informs his support for Naperville’s local business community.

A Platform Built on Responsibility and Sustainability

When Ashfaq Syed decided to run for Naperville City Council, it was a natural extension of years spent serving the community. His platform emphasized responsible development—a balanced approach that welcomes growth without compromising quality of life. In a city known for its high standards of living, Syed has consistently advocated for smart infrastructure investments that anticipate future needs while respecting existing neighborhoods.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of his leadership philosophy. Recognizing the environmental responsibilities of modern cities, Syed supports initiatives that protect natural resources, promote energy efficiency, and ensure that development aligns with environmental stewardship. For him, sustainability is not just an environmental issue but a long-term economic strategy that benefits future generations.

On public safety, Syed brings both respect and insight. A graduate of the Naperville Citizen Police Academy and Citizen Fire Academy, he has taken the time to understand the realities faced by first responders. These experiences have strengthened his appreciation for the professionalism, preparedness, and sacrifices of police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel—informing his policy positions and budgetary priorities.

Leadership in Community Institutions

Councilman Syed’s commitment to public service extends far beyond City Hall. One of the most significant chapters of his civic journey was his tenure as President of the Naperville Public Library Board of Trustees, where he oversaw an $18 million budget. In this role, he helped guide one of the city’s most vital knowledge institutions—balancing innovation, accessibility, and fiscal responsibility.

His board service also includes Loaves & Fishes Community Services, a critical organization addressing food insecurity and crisis assistance, and Naperville Neighbors United, which promotes civic engagement and social cohesion. These roles reflect Syed’s belief that strong communities are built through collaboration, compassion, and shared responsibility.

As Civic Engagement Leader for the Islamic Center of Naperville, Syed has worked to encourage participation in civic life, bridge cultural understanding, and reinforce the values of pluralism and mutual respect. His leadership underscores the idea that civic engagement transcends backgrounds and beliefs, uniting residents around common goals.

A Nationally Recognized Census Success

One of Councilman Syed’s most impactful contributions came as Co-Chair of Naperville’s 2020 Complete Count Committee. Under his leadership, Naperville achieved a best-in-the-nation census self-reporting rate—a remarkable accomplishment with tangible benefits.

This success translated into millions of dollars in state and federal funding for schools, infrastructure, healthcare, and community programs. It also demonstrated Syed’s ability to mobilize diverse stakeholders, communicate complex issues effectively, and deliver measurable outcomes. The census effort stands as a case study in how local leadership can have national significance.

Championing Youth, Families, and Education

Ashfaq Syed’s dedication to youth and families is evident through his involvement with the Indian Prairie School District 204 Citizens Task Force and 360 Youth Services. These engagements reflect his belief that the strength of a city lies in how well it nurtures its next generation.

By contributing to educational planning and youth development initiatives, Syed has consistently advocated for policies that support mental health, educational excellence, and safe environments for young people. His approach recognizes that investment in youth is an investment in the city’s long-term resilience and prosperity.

A Collaborative Role in City Governance

Within the Naperville City Council, Syed serves as a liaison to several key bodies, including the Special Events Community Arts Commission, Human Rights and Fair Housing Commission, Emergency Telephone System Board, and Sister Cities Commission. These roles require diplomacy, strategic thinking, and an inclusive mindset—qualities Syed brings in abundance.

Through these assignments, he helps ensure that Naperville remains culturally vibrant, socially equitable, and globally connected, while maintaining robust emergency communication systems. His work reinforces the idea that effective governance happens not only through legislation but also through collaboration across institutions.

The Person Behind the Public Servant

Beyond titles and responsibilities, Ashfaq Syed is a family man. He and his wife Ayeisha are proud parents to three children—Juveria, Amaan, and Amaar. Family, for Syed, is both a grounding force and a source of inspiration, shaping his views on education, safety, and community wellbeing.

In his free time, he enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and exploring diverse cuisines—interests that reflect his global outlook and curiosity about cultures. These personal pursuits mirror his professional and civic life: open-minded, people-centric, and forward-looking.

Looking Ahead: A Vision Through 2029 and Beyond

As his term runs through 2029, Councilman Ashfaq Syed remains focused on ensuring that Naperville continues to thrive as a welcoming, forward-thinking city. His vision balances growth with preservation, innovation with responsibility, and diversity with unity.

What sets Syed apart is not just the breadth of his resume but the coherence of his values. Whether in a boardroom, a community meeting, or a council chamber, he brings the same principles: listen carefully, act responsibly, and serve with integrity.

In an age when trust in institutions is often tested, leaders like Ashfaq Syed demonstrate how local governance—rooted in experience, empathy, and accountability—can make a profound difference. His story is not only a success narrative but a reminder that the most impactful leadership often begins closest to home.