Our policy committees, comprised of a diverse group of Chamber members, actively discuss and develop positions on key issues impacting Edmonton's business community. Once these positions are established, our team integrates them into our comprehensive advocacy strategy. This ensures that the voice of the business community is effectively communicated to the appropriate levels of government, aiming to positively influence their decisions on business matters.
The influence of our policy committees extends beyond Edmonton, reaching provincial and national levels. Each year, the Edmonton Chamber has the unique opportunity to submit policies to both the Alberta Chambers of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, allowing our perspectives to be included in broader advocacy efforts across the country.
Our committees are composed of exceptional individuals employed by our member companies, who are dedicated to driving positive change for businesses in Edmonton. Their commitment and expertise are instrumental in shaping a favorable business environment in our city.
Please note that the application period for the 2023/24 policy committees is now closed. If you are interested in volunteering with this dynamic advocacy community in the future, please reach out to the Chamber Policy team at policy@edmontonchamber.com.
Our policy committees focus in six key areas:
Arts, Tourism, and Hospitality
- The tourism and visitor economy is a vital part of the Edmonton Region’s vibrancy and prosperity, as is its major driver: the arts, entertainment, and recreation industry. The Arts, Tourism and Hospitality Committee focuses on what the sector needs to sustain operations in the future, chart economic recovery and showcase the Edmonton Region to residents and the world.
- Chair: Brittney Roy, BKRx Inc., Principal Director
- Vice Chair: Sally Kim, Edmonton Arts Council, Associate Executive Director, Programs, Services and Access
Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources
- The Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee focuses on policies that support Edmonton’s energy and resource sectors while recognizing the impact those sectors have on the environment. The Committee aims to balance economic and environmental considerations and remains keenly aware of local, national and global trends that impact our industries.
- Chair: Stacey Schorr, Direct Energy, Head, Government Relations, Canada
- Vice Chair: Derek Hollman, EPCOR, Senior Manager, Engineering & Project Management
Finance, Budget, and Regulation
- The Finance, Budget and Regulation Committee focuses on taxation, fiscal issues, insurance and regulation, procurement and development. The Committee monitors the fiscal activities of all levels of government and considers current macroeconomic conditions and trends.
- Chair: Angela McDow, Info-Tech, Senior Regional Director
- Vice Chair: Vamsi Vinakari, Scotiabank, Branch Manager
Health and Life Sciences
- With a strong research ecosystem and resources to support innovation and advanced manufacturing, the Edmonton region is home to a vibrant and growing life science sector. The Health and Life Science Committee is focused on ensuring a stable regulatory environment, fostering innovation, and improving supports for the life science industry.
- Chair: Loreen Wales, Revive Wellness
Trade and Industry
- The Trade and Industry Committee is focused on policies that support investment attraction and access to markets, and the conditions to support manufacturing, export and emerging technologies. The Edmonton Chamber of commerce leverages a network of 320 World Trade Centres in 92 countries.
- Chair: Alim Somji, Jaffer Inc, Executive Vice President
- Vice Chair: Wray Steedsman, IDX a Converge Company, Vice President at Engineering
Workforce Development and Attraction
- The Workforce Development and Attraction Committee is focused on long-term workforce challenges and opportunities, building capacity in Edmonton’s workforce and ensuring members have the talented individuals needed to meet current demands and support future growth.
- Chair: Doha Melhem, Pivotal Research Inc, President
- Vice Chair: Ayo Aiyeleye, Alberta Innovates, Director, Capital Access
For more information, please contact policy@edmontonchamber.com.