Nonprofits and Education
President and CEO
Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin & Metropolitan Chicago | Milwaukee
Since joining Goodwill Industries in 1990, Jackie Hallberg has moved progressively through the nonprofit job training organization and thrift store operator to become president and CEO of its southeastern Wisconsin and metropolitan Chicago territory in 2012. With roughly 5,000 employees, 72 retail locations and more than $323 million in revenue, Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin & Metropolitan Chicago is the largest among 155 nonprofit Goodwill organizations in North America. In 2021, the organization reported serving 42,000 individuals and facilitating over 4,000 job placements.
Education: Bachelor’s, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; Master’s, UW-Milwaukee
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
"I was a park and recreation leader during college, which was a defining moment in choosing my career path. I realized I needed to make a difference in the lives of people, especially where there is community need."
What is one book you think everyone should read, and why?
"'The Advantage' by Patrick Lencioni is a must read. This book has helped me think about what we need as an organization to build cohesive leadership teams and meet the changing needs of our employees and the people and communities we serve."
What is your hobby/passion?
"I love gardening, especially flowers. It’s a very calming activity and the result is something beautiful."
What advice would you give to a young professional?
"If you align your passions with your career and what you do every day, you will be successful and fulfilled. We spend way too much time at work to not love the work we do!"
What has been your/your organization’s most significant success over the last 12 months?
"Adapting and leading the organization through the pandemic and the impacts of racial and social injustice. Goodwill emerged as a stronger and more resilient organization committed to growth, deeper and scaled impact, and diversity, equity, and inclusion."
What is one thing you would change about Wisconsin to make it even better?
"Greater collective community impact would benefit Wisconsin. Nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government entities all working together to help individuals, families and communities thrive."
Is there a nonprofit cause that has special meaning to you?
"Goodwill, of course. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work for Goodwill for 32 years. During this time, I have seen the impact of our mission, the dignity of employment, and the transformation of lives through the power of work."
What has you most excited about the future?
"Through the generous support of our donors, shoppers, and community partners, Goodwill has the ability to be a game-changing workforce leader, impacting lives and communities through inclusive opportunities and the power of work. We’ve set some aggressive goals to grow and scale our mission impact across our territory to positively impact the people and communities we serve."
