Biography

Maxene Johnston, as founder and president of Johnston and Company, has more than 25 years of combined management makeovers, turnaround, executive search and entrepreneurial experience in nonprofit organizations, government, business, healthcare and philanthropy. A noted expert in helping nonprofits, in particular, transform themselves by establishing and implementing the necessary strategies, plans and resources to evolve to the next level, she has also built a successful track record in executive search by creating Signature Search Services that have been responsible for bringing talented professionals and leaders to a variety of organizations, particularly in the health and human service industry. Formerly, Ms. Johnston held the position of president and chief executive officer of the Weingart Center. There, using the break-through thinking she created one of the most entrepreneurial, innovative and comprehensive transitional housing and customized health and human service centers in the country. From her senior level administrative positions with Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, the 1984 Olympic Organizing Committee and the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, Ms. Johnston has built an extensive background in addressing change in a demanding environment. She has authored many papers and articles, opinion pieces and contributed chapters in several books. Her work and efforts on behalf of the community have been recognized with numerous awards and citations.