Steven C. Preston

Steven C. Preston is the President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International, a nonprofit organization that focuses on workforce training and development, job placement, and other services aimed at helping individuals facing barriers such as poverty, disabilities, and a history of incarceration. Under his leadership, Goodwill operates through a network of 155 independent affiliates, employing approximately 125,000 people and serving over 2 million individuals annually.134

Background and Career

Born on August 4, 1960, in Janesville, Wisconsin, Preston graduated with highest distinction from Northwestern University with a B.A. in political science and earned an MBA from the University of Chicago.25 His career spans both public service and the private sector, where he has held various leadership roles. Notably, he served as the 14th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) from 2008 to 2009 during the housing crisis and as the 22nd Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) from 2006 to 2008.234

In the private sector, Preston has been the CEO of Oakleaf Global Holdings and Livingston International, and he served as CFO for two Fortune 500 companies, Waste Management and ServiceMaster, where he managed significant financial restructuring efforts.145

Leadership at Goodwill

Since becoming the CEO of Goodwill Industries International in January 2019, Preston has emphasized the organization's mission to enhance the dignity and quality of life for individuals and families by providing support and resources that help them achieve independence through employment.345 He has also fostered partnerships with major companies such as Google and Coursera to expand training and job placement resources for those in need.3

Preston's approach to leadership is characterized by a commitment to community improvement and workforce development, reflecting his belief that with the right support, individuals can overcome challenges and realize their potential.34 He currently resides in Chicago with his wife and five children and is actively involved in various boards and organizations that support community development.23