BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – Kinexus Group announced that Todd Gustafson has decided to transition from his role as President and CEO to begin the next chapter in his career.
“After 21 years of leading the organization, Todd has decided to end his tenure at Kinexus Group, effective September 8,” said George Saleeby, Kinexus Group Board Chair. “On behalf of the Kinexus Group Board of Directors, we are incredibly proud of all that has been accomplished under Todd’s leadership. We are grateful for his dedication and service to Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties; and we wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.”
Todd joined Kinexus Group in 2005 and over the years, his leadership was instrumental in developing an adaptable nonprofit business model focused on systemic solutions to some of the most complex workforce challenges. Under Todd’s leadership, Kinexus Group earned recognition from prominent organizations and publications, including The NonProfit Times, MiBiz Magazine, and Crain’s Detroit Business, further establishing the organization as a leader in workforce and economic development.
“Serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Kinexus Group for more than two decades has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside so many dedicated Board members, staff, partners, and community leaders who shared a common commitment to strengthening the workforce, economy, and communities across the state,” said Todd Gustafson. “Working hand in hand, we attracted talent, services, programming, and financial resources that otherwise would not have come to the region. Together, we expanded opportunities for employers, job seekers, students, and communities while building an organization recognized for innovation, partnership, and measurable impact. I am confident that the foundation we have built together will continue to drive impact under the organization’s next leader,” he added.
“While leadership changes are significant moments for any organization, the board identified a strong leader as its interim designated successor in 2023 to ensure leadership continuity in the event of a transition as part of the organizational succession planning,” said George. “Erin Wright will serve as Interim leader, who has been the Kinexus Group Chief People Officer since 2018.”
“During this transition, our focus is on keeping Kinexus moving forward, supporting our employees and continuing the work our communities count on us to do,” said Erin Wright. “Kinexus Group plays an important role in connecting people to opportunity and helping our communities thrive, and that responsibility remains at the center of our work. We will continue providing steady leadership and support for our employees as the Board conducts its search for the organization’s next leader.”
Kinexus Group is an organization that invests its time and resources into inspiring positive economic change one individual, one business, and one community at a time. For more information, visit www.Kinexus.org.
