Staff

Armando Ojeda, Executive Director

Armando Ojeda was named Executive Director of the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in May, 2011.

The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce represents its immediate membership as well as the broader interests of the 10,000+ Hispanic-owned business in the State of Michigan. A key strategic pillar of the Chamber is to serve as an enabling mechanism for the economic development of Michigan's Hispanic population.

Armando has served in corporate and civic leadership roles throughout his 40 year career. Prior to his retirement in December, 2010, Armando served as Director of Supplier Diversity Development for Ford Motor Company where he managed an award-winning national program recognized for including and growing minority and women suppliers in the automotive supply chain.

He came to Ford after serving as President of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Washington, DC. His career path includes progressively responsible assignments at the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Levi Strauss & Company, McDonald's Corporation, Burson Martstellar Public Relations and General Motors Corporation.

He holds an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, is married to the former Kathleen Wier and is the father of two adult children.

Jennifer Nielsen, Business Development Manager

Jennifer Nielsen brings to the Chamber a strong track record of strategic planning, project management and fundraising in the nonprofit and public sector. She spearheaded and managed the establishment of a $1.3 million budget directing five capital campaigns and more than 50 fundraisers in her role as Interim District Director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She also created and maintained a finance plan, a fundraising strategy, and intern and volunteer staff for a U.S. Senatorial candidate, including planning 42 fundraisers. Jennifer is also experienced in developing human resources strategies that help create a positive work environment that energizes individuals towards achieving common goals.

Barbara Lange, Bookkeeper/Office Manager

Barbara Lange has extensive experience helping to structure administrative processes, implementing financial controls and assuring disciplined vendor management and building cost efficiencies. She is vital to maintaining projects and expediting their completion.