MDI Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

MDI has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and manufacturing.

Driven by a commitment to social impact, MDI provides essential employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, manufacturing high-quality plastic containers and offering comprehensive packaging services nationwide.

Leadership Roles at MDI

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Ricky Black
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Peter McDermott
  • Chief Financial Officer - Lance Novak
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rodney Wood
  • Ricky Black - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ricky Black, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MDI, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization. This leadership role involves guiding MDI's mission to provide employment opportunities and services for people with disabilities, ensuring the company's social enterprise objectives are met alongside its business goals. Black oversees the development and execution of strategic initiatives that enhance MDI's market position in manufacturing high-quality plastic containers and product assembly services. The focus remains on fostering an inclusive workplace that builds employee confidence and independence. Ricky Black drives the company's growth by expanding its reach to organizations nationwide, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, ensuring both dedicated employees and satisfied customers.

    Peter McDermott - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Peter McDermott, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MDI, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the company's dual mission. McDermott's leadership ensures MDI effectively provides critical employment opportunities and services for individuals with disabilities, while simultaneously delivering high-quality plastic container manufacturing and packaging solutions. This executive guides the company's expansion efforts, targeting diverse clients across the country, including Fortune 500 corporations. Peter McDermott champions the inclusive workplace culture that empowers employees, fostering confidence and purpose. The strategic imperative involves optimizing operations to meet customer demands for product assembly and packaging services, thereby reinforcing MDI's reputation for excellence and social responsibility.

    Lance Novak - Chief Financial Officer

    Lance Novak, the Chief Financial Officer at MDI, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Novak oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring MDI's sustainability as a nonprofit social enterprise. This role is critical in balancing the financial requirements of manufacturing high-quality plastic containers and providing comprehensive packaging services with the company's core mission of creating employment for people with disabilities. Lance Novak directs financial strategies that support operational efficiency and growth, enabling MDI to serve a broad range of clients from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. The CFO's oversight ensures responsible resource allocation, maximizing the impact of MDI's work and fostering long-term financial stability for the organization.

    Rodney Wood - Chief Operating Officer

    Rodney Wood, the Chief Operating Officer at MDI, directs the day-to-day operational activities that support the company's manufacturing and packaging services. Wood's responsibilities encompass overseeing the production of high-quality plastic containers and ensuring the efficient delivery of product assembly and packaging solutions to clients nationwide. This leadership position is integral to maintaining MDI's commitment to providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, integrating workforce development with operational excellence. Rodney Wood drives process improvements and operational scaling to meet the demands of diverse customers, including Fortune 500 companies. The COO's focus on operational efficiency directly contributes to the company's ability to foster an inclusive workplace, build employee confidence, and achieve customer satisfaction.
    Rodney Wood

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding MDI Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads MDI?
    MDI is led by Ricky Black (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Peter McDermott (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Lance Novak (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of MDI’s executive team?
    The executive team of MDI includes leaders such as Ricky Black (President & Chief Executive Officer), Peter McDermott (President & Chief Executive Officer), Lance Novak (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does MDI have?
    MDI has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in MDI’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of MDI includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.