Gun Lake Investments chooses next CEO

Gun Lake Investments chooses next CEO
Monica King. <strong> Courtesy Gun Lake Investments </strong>

The interim CEO of a local economic development corporation stepped into the role permanently.

Gun Lake Investments (GLI) — an economic development corporation for the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians of Michigan, also known as the Gun Lake Tribe — said Monday, Jan. 3, its interim CEO Monica King now is its full-time permanent CEO, effective Jan. 1.

King has served GLI in an advisory capacity for three years and became its interim CEO in July 2021 following the departure of former CEO Kurt Trevan.

Prior to joining GLI, King served as CEO and managing partner of DWH, a business advisory firm in Grand Rapids.

GLI is the tribally owned, nongaming investment arm of the Gun Lake Tribe. It manages a portfolio of equity and debt investments in real estate and operating companies.

“I’m happy that someone with Monica’s experience and proven track record has accepted the CEO position,” said John Shagonaby, GLI board chair. “Monica has already demonstrated she has the experience, character and leadership qualities we need as we continue to seek new investments to support the tribe’s long-term financial stability and success. We welcome her to her new permanent role with Gun Lake Investments.”

With more than 20 years of finance and operations experience at companies of varying size and scope, King brings expertise in managing acquisitions, integrations, and infrastructure development and implementation.

“I am incredibly honored to continue to serve the Gun Lake Tribe in this capacity,” King said. “Although it was a difficult decision to leave DWH, I am beyond excited to work with such an amazing group of people and continue the mission of Gun Lake Investments. I sincerely appreciate the support everyone has shown so far, especially the way in which tribal council, the GLI board and GLI team came together through GLI’s leadership transition. This genuinely reflected strong core values and a culture that I feel very lucky to join.”

With King at the helm, GLI plans to hire additional senior leaders to guide the operations of the business and work alongside portfolio company leaders. Ben Borisch will remain involved at GLI as the interim COO as additional executive team members are identified.