President & Chief Operating Officer

About the Organization

Midwest Enterprises for the Blind (MWEB) is a nonprofit organization committed to creating valuable employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. As a 501(c)(3) entity and a government contractor partnering with the U.S. AbilityOne Program through the National Industries for the Blind (NIB), MWEB produces high-quality SKILCRAFT® folding tables, chairs, and components in Southwest Michigan servicing federal agencies nationwide.

Role Overview

We are seeking a visionary and mission-focused President and Chief Operating Officer (President/COO) to steer our organization towards strategic growth, operational excellence, and greater community impact. This senior leadership role reports directly to the Board of Directors and offers executive oversight of manufacturing operations, finance, human resources, government contracting, compliance, workforce development, and organizational expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Board to define and execute MWEB's strategic direction, operational goals, and long-range plans.
• Lead and manage all core operations including manufacturing, finance, HR, quality assurance, business development, compliance, and daily activities ensuring superior organizational performance.
• Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting, and prudent resource allocation to ensure fiscal health and sustainability.
• Identify growth opportunities, bolster strategic alliances, diversify revenue sources, and promote the organization's mission through responsible expansion.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing leadership cadre while cultivating an inclusive and accountable workplace culture.
• Implement continuous improvement strategies leveraging data analytics and key performance metrics to enhance operational efficiency.
• Act as the key organizational ambassador with the Board, government entities, customers, community partners, donors, and industry stakeholders.
• Lead with integrity and servant leadership, championing meaningful employment for visually impaired individuals and supporting the AbilityOne Program.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations, Finance, Manufacturing, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a similar discipline; Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
• At least 10 years of increasing executive leadership experience overseeing strategy, operations, and financial performance.
• Proven track record of managing cross-functional teams in areas such as operations, finance, manufacturing, HR, business development, and strategic planning.
• Preferred background in nonprofit, government contracting, manufacturing, or mission-driven organizations.
• Experience collaborating with or reporting directly to a Board of Directors is advantageous.
• Competency in data-driven decision-making and familiarity with continuous improvement methods such as Lean or Six Sigma is highly valued.
• Strong leadership skills managing diverse teams across multiple departments or functions.

Additional Information

This opportunity suits a mission-driven executive passionate about combining strategic oversight with hands-on leadership. The successful candidate will be approachable, humble, and action-oriented, with a commitment to fostering innovation, operational excellence, and financial accountability. By joining MWEB, you will contribute to sustaining and growing a vital organization that empowers visually impaired individuals through meaningful work and quality manufacturing services.