We are seeking an energetic and visionary leader to implement the strategies developed by the GTED Board of Directors, and to lead the company to sustainable, long-term growth for the benefit of the next seven generations.

We are currently seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for our Traverse City, MI location.

Wages are commensurate with experience.

SUMMARY

Grand Traverse Economic Development (GTED) is the commercial investment arm of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) and is actively growing its presence in the Federal marketplace with subsidiaries engaged in manufacturing, construction and engineering, health services, and information systems.

Reporting directly to the GTED Board of Directors, the CEO is the focal point of leadership for Grand Traverse Economic Development (GTED). Under the guidance and direction of the GTED Board of Directors (“the Board”), the CEO is responsible for day-to-day operational management of a seasoned executive team.

This position has direct oversight of all functions and operations that are encompassed under GTED, which strives to achieve long-term financial success.

The CEO provides strategic planning, leadership, and government contracting expertise and experience including SBA Tribal 8(a) programs knowledge and general government contracting knowledge to assist the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) and GTED in developing new subsidiary companies with innovative technologies and business services lines, while establishing Tribal super 8(a) certified companies for enhanced economic growth and job creation opportunities.

IN THIS POSITION, YOU WILL:

• Assist the Board of Directors to develop investment strategies that drive acquisition and investments as well as support the growth of existing business holdings.
• Build sustainable revenues to ultimately provide dividends back to the Tribe.
• Source, research, and present business investment opportunities, and acquisition opportunities to the Board with an emphasis on existing 8(a) firms. (This would require starting up Limited Liability Companies through the Tribal Government)
• Utilize government contracting and SBA 8(a) program experience to help GTED subsidiaries become certified as SBA Section 8(a) certified companies for enhanced economic growth through government contracts business development.
• Provide leadership and management to ensure the mission and core values of the company are properly put into practice.
• Foster a success-oriented, accountable environment within the company. Direct management of personnel within GTED and its subsidiaries, including mentoring and career development.
• Oversee the performance of subsidiary companies in coordination with subsidiary Managers.
• Adhere to sound business principles in managing activities that generate income; monitor internal controls in all activities to maintain financially stable conditions, while promoting economic growth.
• Analyze the financial and economic impact of proposals for mergers and acquisitions of new business, evaluate the business risk associated with each proposal and contract, and make recommendations in relation thereto.
• Ensure an environment that promotes great performance and positive morale.
• Represent the company in the local community and provide annual reports at the Tribal Membership Meeting, the Annual Owners Meeting and provide monthly reports to Tribal Council
• Create, improve, and enforce company policies to improve the operational and financial effectiveness of the company.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE:

• Strong business acumen, including knowledge of profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow management, as well as budgeting processes.
• The ability to implement the company’s vision as set forth by the GTED Board, while furthering the mission and culture of GTED.
• The ability to integrate the various functional areas within GTED and train, develop, and lead a team of seasoned executives.
• The ability to respond to common inquires or complaints from the GTED Board, the Owner, partnering agencies, and members of the associated business community
• The ability to inspire confidence and create trust.
• The ability to make ethically sound decisions and act as a positive reflection of the company.

ADDITIONALLY, THE IDEAL CANDIDATE IS REQUIRED TO HAVE:

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Business Management, Finance, or related field is required
• 10 years experience minimum as CEO, or other related C-Level Corporate positions is required
• Strong understanding of DCAA, FAR, DFAR, SBA, and other applicable Federal Regulations
• Experience with at least three of the following: mergers and acquisitions, private equity, federal contracting, institutional investments, financial analysis, or SBA 8(a) certification.
• Experience in federal contracting and procurement is preferred
• Organizational and analytical skills
• Demonstrated leadership and management experience
• Ability to effectively communicate
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc).
• Government Service or government contracting experience highly desirable
• Experience with Tribally owned entities is highly desirable

WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY?

• Strong positive ties to growing tribal economies
• Join regional community leadership
• Seasoned board of directors with extensive industry experience
• Ability to guide the company through a period of significant growth
• Competitive salary and benefits

* This position posting is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the CEO, as the need may change with future economic endeavors. Performance evaluation, in part, will be determined by the ability to perform the tasks and requirements detailed in this job description. This position posting is not a contract for employment.

GTED is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

**The following preferences are applied; however, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply:

Indian Preference

Relatives and Guardians of Members of a Federally Recognized Tribe

Veteran Preference