Shamar Herron Named New Executive Director for Michigan Works! Southeast

(September 15, 2020 4:25 PM) Michigan Works! Southeast has announced Shamar Herron has been named the new Executive Director of Michigan Works! Southeast.  Mr. Herron is expected to begin his role in the next few months, as his predecessor, William Sleight is set to retire at the end of October, 2020. 

“Shamar’s experience as a Michigan Works! Director and his record of achievement in workforce and economic development make him a great choice to be the next Director of Michigan Works! Southeast. His vision and leadership will be an asset to our region and our state,” said William Sleight, Director, Michigan Works! Southeast.

Originally from Detroit, Shamar began his career in the life sciences and moved into Economic Development before landing in workforce as the Director of Workforce Development in Washtenaw County.  Shamar was instrumental in merging three workforce organizations in 2016 to help form Michigan Works Southeast, where he has served as Deputy Director.  His goals for the organization are greater and more meaningful partnerships, a focus on growth industries and quality customer service.    

“I am honored and excited to continue moving workforce development forward in a way that sheds the spotlight onto the value our organization brings to the communities we serve,” said Shamar Herron, Michigan Works! Southeast.  “We are facing unique times in our region, state and nation.  It’s time to roll up our sleeves, accept the challenges we are facing together, and craft creative solutions,” said Herron.

Marcus James, Chair of the Michigan Works! Southeast Workforce Development Board said, “Shamar has a proven track record of caring deeply for our five counties and the individual members of our organization.” He has already shared some very promising ideas that I believe will help propel Michigan Works! Southeast into the leadership position our five counties need to address the myriad of new challenges regarding the pandemic, the challenging economic conditions and the social upheaval caused by ongoing social inequities.”

Michigan Works! Southeast is part of a statewide network of organizations that contributes to the economic prosperity of our communities by developing a strong, talented workforce. The agency serves businesses and jobseekers in the counties of Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston and Washtenaw.