Mark Skala, a seasoned marketing executive, journalist, and community leader has been named the new president and CEO of the Cape and Islands United Way. Skala comes to the organization with a wealth of experience, most recently serving as vice president at Lighthouse Media Solutions, where he oversaw client relations services as well as the company’s TV shows and video production. He previously worked in executive roles at Bank of Cape Cod and GateHouse Media. Skala lives in Hyannis with his wife, Kelly, and their three sons.
Throughout his career, Skala has advocated for and on behalf of many nonprofits, serving on numerous boards and committees. He said his new position offers him the best of both worlds.
“I consider this a dream job; it will allow me to utilize my talents in advocating for and collaborating on key social issues in a place I love so dearly,” Skala said. “As the single largest non-government funder of human services on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, our local United Way plays an integral role in serving our communities and the people in them. I want to be a part of that and help, in any way I can, to shape social change in the place I have called home for more than 25 years.”
According to a statement from the organization’s board chair, Todd Machnik, the CEO search yielded a large pool of highly-qualified candidates.
“Mark stood above,” said Machnik. “He is a proven leader in both the public and nonprofit sectors, and has an affable and engaging demeanor. We liked him from the get go. We know that he will lead the Cape and Islands United Way in its mission, and build upon the brand to reach more people in our community.”
"We are especially pleased that Mark is a long-time Cape resident, and is passionate about his commitment to the area,” said Donna Morris, current board member and the organization’s immediate past chair. “He understands both what make our communities special, and what unique challenges we face.”
Skala officially begins in his new role on September 24th.