Over the last eighteen months, Alessandro DiNello has led the development of Southeast Michigan’s Economic Development Strategy as Co-chair of the SEMCOG and MAC Economic Development Task Force (along with Laura Kropp, Mayor of the City of Mount Clemens). This role requires strong leadership at the best of times, but during a global pandemic and growing social justice movement, his commitment to public service and equity while running one of the largest banks in the nation, is remarkable. He acknowledges that it was not easy, and credits his team – particularly Beth Correa, Senior Vice President – in making his participation possible during the pandemic. He was also impressed with “the positive energy, direction and important work being done to improve the region.”
DiNello is being recognized as one of two SEMCOG Regional Ambassadors for 2021 because of his work with the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition and leadership in the development of the economic development strategy during a period of economic and social change. He says he is uncomfortable being recognized because he is not an awards person. However, he also feels “it is an opportunity to pay respect to the people behind the scenes who do the hard work.”
Background
Sandro DiNello is President and CEO of Flagstar Bank. He is one of those people who possesses the drive and focus to excel but somehow stays humble, someone who can be on three Zoom calls without missing a beat. He joined the company in 1979 as “Employee number 50” and has been a part of its growth over the last 42 years. He was selected President and CEO in 2013, and the company now has over 5,500 employees. While Flagstar is known for being one of the largest residential mortgage servicers and banks in the United States, it also has a culture based on equity and inclusion. He believes that people are the company’s most important asset and under his leadership, Flagstar Bank has developed initiatives to mentor its staff and reflect the diversity of the community. He has a diverse executive team and emphasizes the need for a broad candidate pool when hiring.
Sandro DiNello is a family man. He was born in Detroit to parents who emigrated from Italy. He grew up in a largely Italian and Polish neighborhood in St. Clair Shores and went to South Lake High School. He says he had a great childhood. He attended Western Michigan University where he met his wife as well as eight of his closest friends who he still sees today. He serves on the Foundation board of the Haworth College of Business. He has two adult children and four grandchildren with another one on the way.
DiNello is inspired by seeing others succeed. He feels blessed to be able to influence others by sharing a vision and watching them make decision to improve their lives. This applies to his personal, professional and community interactions. He looks for challenges and goes all in with intensity but integrity.
Giving Back to the Community
DiNello is actively involved in many different business and civic organizations. He chooses those about which he is passionate where he believes he can make a difference.
These are opportunities to do good things for people who need help. As a leader in banking, I feel an obligation to give back to community, and as CEO, I feel it is important to benefit the community.
Organizations he is currently active with include Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) – SEMCOG’s sister organization; Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Detroit Regional Chamber; Business Leaders for Michigan. He has also been active with Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and several community organizations.
Vision for Southeast Michigan
DiNello agreed to co-chair the Economic Development Task force because he feels that challenging times bring opportunities. He feels that Southeast Michigan has not done as well as it is capable of and wants to see this change. He was instrumental in integrating health and equity in the region’s economic development strategy to address the challenges created by the pandemic on people, communities, and the economy. He sees opportunities to grow the region’s workforce to make it more competitive and supports Mayor Duggan’s workforce initiatives.
His focus is on making his company and the region the best it can be by recognizing successful models and customizing them for Southeast Michigan. He says, “For Michigan to be a top ten state, Detroit must be a top ten city.” He is encouraged by business leaders who are making bold decisions to strengthen the city and region, and means to continue doing what he can to make Southeast Michigan a top ten region.
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