As a trusted workforce development and public policy executive with extensive experience providing professional leadership and direction, Partner4Work CEO Robert Cherry is committed to a thriving workforce. He is an active champion for businesses and job seekers, implementing programs, policy initiatives, and community engagement.
Robert previously served as the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) in Wisconsin, managing six bureaus that include the Division of Administration, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Unemployment Insurance, Division of Employment and Training, Division of Equal Rights, and Division of Workers Compensation.
Before DWD, Robert spent five years at Employ Milwaukee, the workforce development board serving Milwaukee County, in roles including Vice President of Planning and Development, Chief Development and Partnership Officer, and Director of Career Exploration. He is most proud of developing and implementing the Career Plus program that consisted of year-round combined workforce training, subsidized improvement, and social-emotional development delivered to City of Milwaukee citizens ages 15-24. Robert spent his early career at the Community Advocates Public Policy Institute and the Center for Urban Population Health.