50/50 Women on Boards Names Heather Spilsbury as New CEO
50/50 Women on Boards (50/50WOB) has announced the appointment of Heather Spilsbury as its new Chief Executive Officer, starting Jan. 1, 2024. Spilsbury joined 50/50WOB in 2020 and has served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer for the organization. Betsy Berkhemer-Credaire, who served as CEO since 2018, will continue with the organization as president.
“We are pleased to have Heather Spilsbury as our new CEO to lead 50/50WOB into its next phase of growth,” said Stephanie Sonnabend, co-founder and board chair of 50/50WOB. “She has been a phenomenal leader since joining us in 2020 and will forge our pathway toward achieving 50% of corporate board seats held by women, and at least 20% of all seats held by women of color. We are extremely grateful to Betsy Berkhemer-Credaire as CEO for six years. In her role as president, she will be instrumental in raising awareness through her expansive network, remarkable fundraising achievements and dedication to our mission.”
“I am honored to undertake the role of CEO at 50/50WOB, leading the organization through this pivotal phase of growth, supported by our exceptional team and committed volunteers,” said Spilsbury. “Over the past three years, I have found a great partner in Betsy Berkhemer-Credaire, and our collaboration remains pivotal to driving this critical business mission forward. While we have accomplished significant milestones, our work is far from complete. I have personally witnessed the remarkable impact of our corporate relationships, the unwavering support from our sponsors and the global engagement of women leaders. With our robust future plans, I am confident we will continue to drive transformative change in the pursuit of diversity on corporate boards.”
Spilsbury joined 50/50WOB in 2020, then 2020 Women on Boards, as Chief Marketing Officer and led the organization through a digital transformation, operational restructuring and a rebrand within her first six months. She was then appointed as COO/CMO and continued to increase awareness for the organization through events, workshops, supporters, partnerships and the newly launched 50 Women to Watch for Boards campaign. With deep roots in the Hispanic community, Spilsbury has had a long history of commitment and service to the advancement of women of color throughout her career. Additionally, she is expanding the 50/50WOB team with the additions of Jeni Ni as Vice President of Marketing and Shane Cullen as Director of Development.
50/50WOB is a leading global nonprofit education and advocacy campaign driving the movement toward gender balance and diversity on corporate boards.