Detroit Regional Chamber Bio
Detroit Regional Chamber > Matt Gillard

Matt Gillard

President and CEO, Michigan’s Children; Former State Representative

Matt Gillard is the president and CEO of Michigan’s Children, where he oversees all of Michigan’s Children’s programs and operations. As former state representative for the 106th District, Gillard served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives, concluding his service in 2008 due to term limits. A strategic leader with extensive experience in high-level negotiation and policy development, Gillard is dedicated to supporting the implementation of relevant and innovative public policy.

Formerly an attorney from Alpena, Gillard graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Albion College and Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School. He is a member of the Michigan State Bar. Gillard also built a successful advocacy and consulting business, providing guidance to various organizations, constituencies, and decision-makers relative to education policy issues.

He lives in Okemos with his wife, Jessica, and their four children Gracie, Joel, Gus, and Pearl.