Introducing Ray Strobel: Director of the Waterfront

April 10, 2024

We’re thrilled to announce the promotion of Ray Strobel to the role of Public Safety Director at the Waterfront in Pittsburgh’s Steel Valley! Ray brings with him a wealth of experience and a unique perspective from his extensive background in law enforcement and service to our country. We sat down with Ray for a fun interview to get to know him better and learn about his journey with Chesley Brown and beyond.

Q&A with Ray Strobel

What is your role at Chesley Brown — how do you help clients?
“I am the Public Safety Director at the Waterfront in the Steel Valley area. I try to visit as many of the businesses on the property daily as I can. When I receive a complaint, I try and get it handled before it has a chance to metastasize.”
How long have you been on the Chesley Brown team?
“I have been with Chesley Brown for almost 2 years.I spent 4 years in the United States Marine Corps in the infantry as a rifleman. After my stint in the Corps, I moved back to the Steel Valley area and for the next 24 years I was a Pittsburgh Police Officer. For 18 of those years, I was on the motorcycle squad.”
What do you enjoy about working here?
“My favorite part of the job is it keeps my hands in law enforcement without all the paperwork!!!”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your career, and how has it influenced you?
“The best career advice I ever got was from an old (probably in his 40s at the time) Lieutenant I worked for. He told me to never listen to another person’s opinion on someone. Get to know the person and form your own opinions. I have followed this advice my entire career and have made many friends and acquaintances over the years that if I had listened to the rumors and gossip, I would have never gotten to know.”
What do you do when you aren’t at work?
“In my off time, I enjoy taking my Harley Davidson on long rides. I find it very relaxing. I also enjoy spending time with my grandson Asher. Eventually, I would love to purchase a house with enough property that my wife could build a barn and keep her horse at our own home.”
People are always surprised to learn that you…
“People are surprised to learn that I am a big Elton John fan because usually I have metal or classic rock playing so when I turn Elton up, they are a little shocked.”
What’s your favorite thing about the city or town where you work, and what’s one hidden gem you’d recommend to visitors?
“The best thing about the Steel Valley area is the people. These folks are still, for the most part, hardworking, god-fearing, good people who want nothing more than to raise their families in a safe environment. The hidden gem in this area is the whole wings at Capri pizza. If you are a wing lover, these are a must-try.”

We are excited to have Ray Strobel leading our team at the Waterfront, bringing his dedication, experience, and enthusiasm to ensure the safety and well-being of our clients and community. Join us in congratulating Ray on his well-deserved promotion and wishing him continued success in his new role!