Peterson brings 26 years of operational leadership and executive experience to the new role. Prior to joining Waséyabek, she worked in several executive roles with Haworth Corporation in Holland, as well as positions with Tennant Corporation in Holland, and Parker Hannifin in Cleveland. She also held leadership roles with Johnson Controls Automotive. Her extensive background positions her well to drive strategic growth and operational excellence for the organization.
“We’re extremely pleased to have Heidi join our rapidly growing company. Heidi is skilled in driving significant improvements in key operational metrics and aligning people and processes. She has a track record of innovation and business growth in several of our key verticals, and she practices a leadership style that empowers others around her. She’s a great fit for our executive team.”
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join such a diverse and dynamic organization. Waséyabek’s economic development performance over the past five years has been exceptional and has brought greater visibility and credibility to Native American economic influence. I look forward to working with the entire Waséyabek team to build on that success.”
Peterson will lead the economic development efforts for Waséyabek, ensuring that they are consistent with the organization’s five-year strategic plan. She will also support the CEO in providing oversight and strategic support to Waséyabek’s industrial, real estate, and federal portfolio companies.
Benesch was promoted to Chief People Officer, an evolution of the Chief Human Resources Officer role. She has more than 16 years’ experience as a human resources executive including serving the past two years as Vice President of Human Resources for Waséyabek’s Federal Group.
We have had the privilege of working with Holly since we acquired majority ownership of VES in 2023, and we have found her people skills and strategic thinking to be exceptional,” said Mitchell. “She brings a deep level of experience to this position having worked with a broad range of businesses as well as with government contracting employees stationed around the country. She’s a talented addition to our corporate leadership staff.”
Throughout her career, Benesch has displayed a thoughtful and relational approach to leadership, one that values both operational excellence and the unique contributions of every individual. She strives to lead with grace, wisdom, and integrity, viewing leadership as an opportunity to serve others and help them reach their potential. She believes the strongest organizations are those that invest in people, cultivate meaningful relationships, and create environments where employees can grow, contribute, and flourish.
“The power of any organization starts with the people who work together to achieved shared goals. To do that, they must be able to thrive in a culture that is inviting, accepting, and nourishes their personal and professional aspirations. I have seen that very culture here at Waséyabek over the last three years and I look forward to building on that foundation.”