Leadership Transition at Baldrige Foundation Marks New Era
The Baldrige Foundation has announced the upcoming retirement of its President and CEO, Al Faber. Having devoted over a decade to this esteemed organization, Faber will step down on April 1, 2025. In a strategic move, the Board of Directors has appointed Josh Racette, the Foundation's Vice President of National Programs and Development, to take over as the new President and CEO.
Al Faber's Legacy and Contributions
During his time at the helm, Faber led significant advancements within the Foundation, notably in re-establishing the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program within the Federal Budget. His leadership also facilitated the creation of the Foundation’s Institute for Performance Excellence and successfully amended Public Law 100-107 to include 'Community' as the seventh category of the Baldrige Awards. Through these initiatives, Faber has not only transformed the organization but has also prepared it to tackle future challenges effectively.
Faber shared his sentiments, stating, "It has been the honor of my life to lead the Baldrige Foundation and be part of a team that serves thousands of organizations across the nation and internationally. I am humbled by the extraordinary dedication, passion, and skill I’ve witnessed among our stakeholders every day. Our accomplishments make me proud, and it’s inspiring to see how the organization has collectively responded to the challenges we face."
Impact of Faber's Leadership
Al's impressive portfolio includes more than 15 years of service to the Baldrige community, where he also held the position of President and CEO of The Partnership for Excellence, a state-based Baldrige program in certain regions. His previous career spanned over three decades in the U.S. Army, where he honed his leadership skills as an Instructor Pilot, Test Pilot, and even commanded battalion and brigade levels, retiring as a Colonel in 2011. This varied background significantly enriched his capabilities as a leader in performance excellence.
Kay Eggleston, the Board Chair, remarked on Faber’s impact, emphasizing the critical role he played in re-establishing Baldrige in Federal circles and successfully guiding the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic. "His vision has been instrumental," she noted, highlighting the adaptive strategies that have positioned the Foundation for continued success in changing times.
The Future with Josh Racette
Following Faber's retirement, Josh Racette will step into the pivotal role of President and CEO. Eggleston spoke highly of Racette, observing that he has excelled as the architect of the Foundation's Institute, fostering collaboration with strategic partners and increasing program participation within the Baldrige community and beyond. "Josh has been fundamental to our progress and success, ensuring a seamless transition as he takes the lead," Faber commented, expressing confidence in Racette's abilities.
Upcoming Events and Engagements
The Baldrige Foundation is eager for its stakeholders to engage in future events, including the 36th Quest for Excellence conference, set to take place from March 30 to April 2, 2025. Attendees can anticipate valuable insights and discussions at this renowned gathering dedicated to performance excellence.
For more inquiries and information pertaining to the conference and participation, contact Mark Wayda at 614-600-0432. The Baldrige Foundation remains dedicated to encouraging organizational performance excellence across various sectors.
About the Baldrige Foundation
The Baldrige Foundation was established as a private partner to the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program in 1988. Its mission focuses on safeguarding the financial sustainability of the Baldrige Program while fostering organizational excellence both nationally and globally. The Baldrige Program operates under NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) within the U.S. Department of Commerce, independently overseeing the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Al Faber?
Al Faber is the outgoing President and CEO of the Baldrige Foundation, with a tenure of over a decade impacting the organization significantly.
Who will replace Al Faber?
Josh Racette, previously the Vice President of National Programs and Development, has been named as the incoming President and CEO.
What are Al Faber's notable achievements?
Faber successfully re-established the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program in the Federal Budget and expanded the Baldrige Awards' categories, among other initiatives.
When is the Quest for Excellence conference?
The Quest for Excellence conference will be held from March 30 to April 2, 2025.
What is the mission of the Baldrige Foundation?
The mission of the Baldrige Foundation is to ensure the long-term financial viability of the Baldrige Program and to promote excellence in performance across organizations worldwide.
