Leadership in a nonprofit is hard enough, but adding a pandemic was more than we could have ever imagined. Luckily Manatee Habitat had Diana Shoemaker, a strong, strategic thinker, to lead the way through uncharted waters. It is with mixed feelings we announce her departure and the search for the organization’s next CEO. In announcing her departure Diana stated “During my tenure with Manatee County Habitat for Humanity I have had the great privilege of working alongside passionate and committed staff, board members and volunteers. Together we have grown an organization that has earned the praise of community leaders, businesses, civic and faith organizations while we have continued to tangibly address the critical need for affordable housing in Manatee County.”
In the 11 years with the organization, serving as Family Services Manager, Executive Director and eventually President and CEO, the organization helped over 35 families achieve affordable home ownership and has laid the groundwork for 20 more homes to be built. Programs addressing the critical repair needs of the existing affordable housing stock have expanded, increasing the number of seniors and disabled homeowners served throughout the county. Services to local veterans seeking homeownership and much needed home repairs were expanded following a partnership with the nonprofit Our Next Mission.
Of highest priority has been the building relationships with local city and county leaders advocating for Manatee Habitat and the critical need for affordable housing in the community, making sure Habitat was at the table in these important conversations. Ms. Shoemaker also served as Chair of the Manatee County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and on the City of Bradenton Affordable Housing Committee and Habitat Florida State Advocacy Team.
Under her direction, Manatee Habitat developed a strategic plan that will continue to build essential partnerships with the community municipalities and residents to continue to address the need for more affordable housing. Having weathered many of the initial challenges of the pandemic, the organization is stronger than ever and preparing to get underway building more Habitat homes with 4 homes in Palmetto and another 16 homes in Samoset.
In announcing her departure, Diana Shoemaker stated, “I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have served as a leader for Manatee Habitat for Humanity and for being part of an organization that has cared so deeply for the needs of our neighbors.” Although Ms. Shoemaker will be leaving Manatee Habitat, she will continue in her leadership position on a part time basis until a replacement has been found.
MBJ Group, Inc. has been retained to lead the search for Ms. Shoemaker’s replacement. Go to MBJGROUP.com under Current Searches for full job description. Send your resume, cover letter with salary expectations to karen@mbjgroup.com by March 8, 2022.
