United Way Central Alberta announces new Chief Executive Officer

RED DEER, AB — United Way Central Alberta, today announced the appointment of Chelsea O’Donoghue as Chief Executive Officer, effective May 2, 2022.

Chelsea O’Donoghue is no stranger to United Way supporters as she has served as Donor Relations Manager for the past two years, leading our fundraising efforts and our Period Promise work. O’Donoghue’s appointment comes as Brett Speight (CEO since 2018) announced he is returning to the financial sector.

Doug Doran, United Way Central Alberta President, commented, “When Brett began his role as CEO the Board asked him to begin succession planning for the staff and Chelsea was identified as a possible successor for the CEO role. To ensure that we had the best fit for this vital role, the board of directors reviewed over 50 applicants interviewing the top 5 candidates While all candidates were very strong, Chelsea was the right candidate to lead UWCA into the future. We are highly confident in Chelsea and the team’s ability to continue to successfully lead UCWA beyond the pandemic.”

O’Donoghue commented, “I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for United Way and to continue working with a group of such talented and passionate individuals as we pave our way forward.” Prior to joining the United Way Central Alberta team, O’Donoghue served with United Way Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation in Lacombe, and most recently as Senior Market Manager with TELUS, the local face of the telco during the extensive fiber optic network builds across several communities in the Central Alberta region.

For more information contact,
Chelsea O’Donoghue 403-347-0513 or
chelsea.odonoghue@caunitedway.ca