Housing North Names New Executive Director

Jun 23

Housing North is pleased to announce Carolyn Fairman as its new Executive Director. A seasoned nonprofit executive and strategic advisor with more than 25 years of leadership experience, Fairman brings a proven track record of guiding mission-driven organizations through growth, partnership development, organizational change, and systems-level advocacy.

Throughout her career, Fairman has led complex initiatives across the United States and internationally, working alongside governments, nonprofits, foundations, businesses, and community organizations to address challenging social and economic issues. Her extensive experience in executive leadership, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and organizational development positions her well to lead Housing North as it advances housing solutions across Northwest Lower Michigan.

"Carolyn brings exceptional leadership experience and a demonstrated ability to build partnerships, align diverse stakeholders, and translate vision into action," said Sarah Van Horn, Chair of Housing North's Board of Directors. "Her expertise in strategy, governance, and advocacy will strengthen Housing North's ability to serve the region and advance solutions to one of our communities' most pressing challenges."

Most recently, Fairman served as Chief Operating Officer of CIERTO, an international nonprofit focused on workforce sustainability and ethical labor systems. In that role, she oversaw organizational strategy, governance, operations, financial management, and stakeholder engagement while supporting programs and partnerships across multiple countries. Her career has also included executive leadership roles with Reading Village, the United Farm Workers, the Specialty Coffee Association of America, and Coffee Kids.

Fairman is excited to bring her experience closer to home, having grown up in West Michigan, and pursue meaningful work that will leave a lasting impact in the Northern Michigan region. “I’m truly honored to join Housing North and be a part of the work happening across Northwest Lower Michigan”, said Fairman. “Housing is both fundamental to strong, vibrant communities and deeply personal – it shapes the stability, success, and well-being of individuals and families. I am excited to listen, learn, and work alongside community partners to help expand access and advance solutions that ensure people at all income levels have a place to call home.”

As Executive Director, Fairman will lead Housing North's efforts to increase awareness of regional housing challenges, strengthen partnerships across sectors, and expand the organization's capacity to advance housing solutions. She will work closely with local governments, employers, developers, community organizations, and residents to support policies and initiatives that increase housing opportunities for people at all income levels.

Housing North has become a leading regional voice on housing issues by convening stakeholders, conducting research, supporting local housing initiatives, and advocating for policies that expand housing attainability. Under Fairman's leadership, the organization will continue its commitment to fostering collaboration and advancing innovative solutions that meet the housing needs of Northwest Michigan's communities.