Welcoming Heather Williams as ACCA's New Board Chair

We are thrilled to announce Heather Williams as the new Board Chair of the Alberta Community & Co-operative Association (ACCA). Heather brings a wealth of experience, passion, and vision to her new role, perfectly positioning her to guide ACCA through its next chapter of growth and collaboration.

A Leader with Over 20 Years of Co-operative Experience

Heather’s career spans over two decades of co-operative management, workforce planning, and end-to-end Workforce Management (WFM) solutions. She honed her expertise during her tenure at The Co-operators, where she skillfully led diverse teams through significant change and complex processes. Her commitment to operational excellence, planning, and fostering strong engagement among staff and clients has made her a highly respected leader.

Academic Excellence: Master of Management in Co-operatives and Credit Unions

A recent graduate of the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University, Heather completed her Master of Management Co-operatives and Credit Unions (MMCCU), adding academic excellence to her impressive professional portfolio. This program reflects Heather’s deep commitment to understanding and advancing the co-operative model.

Building on a Legacy: A Message from Outgoing Chair Vicki Zinyk

Outgoing Board Chair Vicki Zinyk shared her thoughts on Heather’s appointment:
"It has been an honor to serve as ACCA’s Board Chair, and I am delighted to pass the torch to Heather Williams. Heather’s experience and passion for the co-operative sector are unmatched. I am confident that under her leadership, ACCA will continue to thrive and support Alberta’s co-operative movement in meaningful ways."

As we thank Vicki Zinyk for her outstanding contributions and leadership, we celebrate her legacy and the strong foundation she has left for the future.

Looking Ahead: Heather’s Vision for Alberta’s Co-operative Sector

Under Heather’s guidance, ACCA is poised to continue strengthening Alberta’s co-operative ecosystem. Her focus on innovation, operational metrics, and fostering a culture of collaboration will drive the organization’s success in the years to come.

Please join us in welcoming Heather Williams to her new role as Board Chair. Together, we’ll continue to build a vibrant and resilient co-operative sector across the province.