Milestones that Matter

Gertrude Matemba-Mutasa

We are thrilled to celebrate alongside our friends and clients at Lifeworks Services, Inc. (Lifeworks) on hiring Gerturde Matemba-Mutasa as President and Chief Executive Officer!

Lifeworks successfully navigated a founder transition starting in 2017, and last year began preparing for the planned retirement of its CEO. In its search for the next leader to guide the organization, Lifeworks sought one who could navigate the complex and rapidly evolving disability services sector by supporting the innovative and inclusive practices that have made Lifeworks a leader it its field. Doran Leadership Partners was honored to conduct a nationwide search led by the team of Kelly Dettmann, Linda Samide and Jared Quade.

Gertrude is the successful candidate from the Twin Cities who brings great experience in the complex world of human services, particularly with respect to addressing issues of disparity. Most recently, Gertrude was Assistant Commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Human Services, providing leadership to address disparities in housing, behavioral health, disability services, deaf and hard of hearing, and care integration. Gertrude’s experience in nonprofit and government management, as well as her passion for making a difference in the lives of others, will support Lifeworks’ continued growth and service to the region.

Lifeworks is a Minnesota 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1965 by parents of children with disabilities who recognized the importance of advocacy and removing barriers for people with disabilities to be part of the community. Lifeworks has evolved into an industry-leading, high impact institution, serving more than 2,900 Minnesotans with disabilities and their families annually, with services that support self-direction in care, employment and activities. Lifeworks’ mission is to serve our community and people with disabilities as we live and work together.

Congratulations, Gertrude and Lifeworks!