Thomas Ulbrich

MBA, University at Buffalo School of Management

Thomas Ulbrich is an entrepreneurial leader and passionate advocate for using business as a force for good. He currently serves as president and CEO of Goodwill of Western New York, where he leads a transformational journey that combines retail innovation, workforce development and sustainability to create opportunities and strengthen communities. Under his leadership, Goodwill has tripled its retail business, launched the innovative Goodskills Career Builder workforce initiative, and set ambitious goals for achieving zero waste and promoting circular economy innovation.

Previously, Ulbrich spent more than a decade as executive director of the School of Management’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, where he advanced the mission of strengthening the regional economy through entrepreneurial education. During his tenure, CEL was recognized nationally as one of the Top 100 Small Business Influencers in North America. He also served as an assistant dean in the UB School of Management and School of Social Work, where his work focused on bridging the gap between the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.

Ulbrich’s career reflects a consistent theme: harnessing entrepreneurial thinking to drive impact. As a business owner, former faculty member, nonprofit executive and thought leader, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs, students and leaders unlock potential, inspire innovation and build stronger communities. His TEDx talk, Is There a Better Way?, highlights the importance of cultivating entrepreneurial spirit in all walks of life.

• Certified Net Promoter Score Customer Loyalty Associate
• Certified Professional Innovation Advisor, Basadur Applied Creativity
• Gazelles International Strategic Planning Certification

• Erie Community College Foundation, Board of Directors
• Belmont Housing Resources for WNY, Board of Directors
• Forbes Nonprofit Council contributor
• Soar, Don’t Settle Leadership Newsletter LinkedIn contributor