In February, we announced a new chapter for Global Detroit: our founding executive director, Steve Tobocman, would be assuming a new role and we would be bringing on a new leader for the organization. Today we are very excited to announce that Steve will be heading up a new national center to develop and disseminate best practices, foster relationships, and develop and grow a national movement for immigrant-inclusive communities and economies. 

The creation of this national center builds upon a decade of national work to develop a movement of immigrant economic inclusion. Since Global Detroit’s founding, we have launched and supported national coalitions, including the Welcoming Economies Global Network and, more recently, the Global Entrepreneurs in Residence (Global EIR) National Peer Network. We have also provided writing, consulting and technical assistance to Welcoming America, Migration Policy Institute, International Economic Development Council and numerous other national organizations. The creation of a national center at Global Detroit provides a home and clear direction to this work. 

One of the hallmarks of Global Detroit is that we are a learning organization, and this leadership transition is no different. As we have moved through this process, the Global Detroit Board of Directors, in close collaboration with Global Detroit’s executive team, has identified a leadership model that we believe will best serve the organization as it moves in this direction.

In this leadership model, Steve will remain in the role of Executive Director of the organization, with a focus on our national work. We will also be hiring a Managing Director to oversee our local efforts. This structure builds on the legacy of Global Detroit’s work in Southeast Michigan and provides the staff and programs more focused and dedicated executive support and leadership. The new Managing Director position opens up space for Global Detroit to provide new leadership who will be able to take the foundation of the vital work that we have become known for and lead its next phase.  

The Managing Director position posting is now live. We encourage visionary leaders committed to building an immigrant inclusive Detroit and Southeast Michigan to apply. And please share with your networks. We look forward to embarking on this exciting new chapter with you!

Sincerely,

Karen Phillippi
Chair, Global Detroit Board of Directors