Goodwill-Suncoast Executive and Leadership Team

Deborah Passerini, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Goodwill-Suncoast, directs the overarching mission of the organization across ten counties in West Central Florida. Passerini architects the strategic vision for all vocational training and employment programs, ensuring alignment with the nonprofit mandate to assist individuals facing barriers to work. By overseeing the executive leadership team, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains operational excellence and financial sustainability for the entire enterprise. Deborah Passerini fosters partnerships with regional stakeholders to expand the reach of community services. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market needs to optimize service delivery models. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term viability of the mission. Passerini drives innovation in workforce development, ensuring that the organization remains a cornerstone of support for the local population while maintaining high standards of fiscal responsibility and social impact.

R. Waits, the Honorary President and Chief Executive Officer Emeritus at Goodwill-Suncoast, provides high-level guidance and historical context to the current leadership team. Waits supports the organization by offering deep institutional knowledge regarding the development of charitable programs throughout West Central Florida. The Honorary President and Chief Executive Officer Emeritus advises on long-term strategic initiatives, ensuring that current operations remain consistent with the foundational values of the nonprofit. By participating in key advisory sessions, R. Waits assists in maintaining continuity during periods of organizational transition or expansion. This role involves mentoring emerging leaders and reinforcing the commitment to community-based vocational support. Through the application of extensive experience, the Honorary President and Chief Executive Officer Emeritus strengthens the connection between past successes and future goals. Waits contributes to the stability of the executive structure, helping to preserve the integrity of the mission while the organization navigates complex regional challenges.

Yvonne Taylor, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Goodwill-Suncoast, manages the entire talent lifecycle for the organization across its ten-county service area. Taylor architects comprehensive recruitment, retention, and professional development strategies to support the diverse workforce required for nonprofit operations. The Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all internal policies align with federal and state labor regulations while fostering an inclusive workplace culture. By overseeing employee relations and benefits administration, Yvonne Taylor maintains high levels of staff engagement and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves collaborating with other executives to align human capital needs with the broader mission of providing vocational training. Through the implementation of robust performance management systems, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational growth. Taylor secures the talent necessary to deliver high-quality community services, ensuring that the workforce remains equipped to meet the evolving demands of the regional labor market.

Jacqueline Miller, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Goodwill-Suncoast, focuses on the optimization of organizational structure and internal communication protocols. Miller directs the implementation of advanced training programs designed to enhance the capabilities of staff members serving the West Central Florida region. The Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer manages complex workforce planning initiatives, ensuring that the organization maintains the necessary capacity to execute its charitable mission effectively. By analyzing labor trends and internal metrics, Jacqueline Miller identifies opportunities for operational improvement and cultural development. This leadership role involves working closely with the executive team to integrate human resources strategies into the daily functions of the nonprofit. Through the refinement of compensation structures and employee wellness initiatives, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer supports the retention of skilled professionals. Miller drives the development of a high-performance environment, ensuring that the organization remains agile and responsive to the needs of the community.