Get ready for a bold conversation that will challenge your thinking.

Join Axis Connects for an unforgettable Lunch with a Leader featuring Heather Campbell — a powerhouse in Canada’s energy transition movement, a passionate advocate for inclusion, and a leader who isn’t afraid to speak the hard truths.

With three decades of experience across the energy industry and a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and equity, Heather brings a perspective that few others can offer. An engineer, energy strategist, clean tech advisor, and community leader, Heather has built a career at the intersection of technical expertise, courageous leadership, and social change.

This won’t be a typical leadership talk. Be prepared for real conversations, uncomfortable questions, and fresh perspectives that will challenge how you think about leadership, innovation, and building a more inclusive future.

Heather currently serves as an independent adviser with Rev Innovations, advancing low-carbon, low-cost energy solutions. She also lends her expertise to the B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy, the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP), Arts Commons, and the Western Engineering Advisory Council.

Heather’s leadership has been recognized with awards including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the Calgary Black Chambers Black Achievement Award in Energy, and the 2024 Harry Jerome Decade Leader Award.

• • • Date: May 22, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
      (Guests are welcome to stay until 1:30 PM for optional networking)
    • Location: Calgary Petroleum Club
    • Room: Presidents Room
    • Cost: $50 + fees and GST

About Heather

Heather Campbell is an accomplished energy professional with a diverse, three decades long energy career in a full range of energy industries. With her focus on energy transition, sustainability, and inclusion, she currently serves as an independent adviser for Rev Innovations as they aim to expand low-carbon, low-cost energy solutions.

Ms. Campbell holds a Bachelor of Engineering Science degree in Biochemical and Chemical Engineering from Western University in addition to a Master of Laws in Energy Law and Policy from the University of Dundee. She is a licensed professional engineer practicing in Alberta, Canada.

Ms. Campbell is an engaged, lifelong community volunteer, actively sharing her talents, resources, and time by participating and often leading a purposely diverse range of organizations. Ms. Campbell is a board director with Calgary’s performing arts centre Arts Commons and is a member of the Advisory Council for Western Engineering, her alma mater.

Ms. Campbell performs two clean technology advisory roles: first she is an advisory council member of the B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (BC CICE), and second she is an advisory board member of the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP). She is the former co-chair of Alberta’s Anti-Racism Advisory Council, a former Commissioner with the Calgary Police Commission, and has been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the Calgary Black Chambers Black Achievement Award in Energy, and the 2024 Harry Jerome Decade Leader Award.

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to connect with John Kousinioris, President and CEO of TransAlta Corporation and a respected voice in Canada’s energy sector.

With a career spanning law, growth strategy, and executive leadership, John brings over a decade of experience at TransAlta, one of Canada’s largest electricity generation companies. Since joining in 2012, he has held key roles including Chief Operating Officer and Chief Growth Officer, before taking the helm as CEO in 2021.

John’s insights go beyond business strategy—he’s deeply committed to community and education. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Governors at Bow Valley College and sits on the boards of the Calgary Stampede Foundation, Axis Connects, and both the Business Council of Alberta and the Business Council of Canada.

This Lunch with a Leader offers an intimate setting to learn from John’s journey, gain perspective on leadership in dynamic industries, and engage in meaningful conversation with Calgary’s professional community.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and expand your network.

• Date: May 9, 2025
• Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
• Location: Calgary Petroleum Club
• Cost: $50 + fees and GST

About John Kousinioris

John Kousinioris has served as the President and CEO of TransAlta Corporation since 2021 and has been with the company since 2012. Prior to stepping into this role, he has held several leadership positions at TransAlta including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Growth Officer and Chief Legal Compliance Officer.

TransAlta is one of Canada’s largest publicly traded electricity generation companies, with over 113 years of experience operating hydro, wind, solar, gas and storage facilities across five provinces in Canada, the United States and Western Australia.

John holds a Bachelor of Arts from the Ivey Business School, an MBA from York University, a Law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School, and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard University. Beyond his role at TransAlta, he is the Chair of the Board of Governors at Bow Valley College, a Director on the Calgary Stampede Foundation Board, a director on the Axis Connects Board, and is a member of the Business Councils of Canada and Alberta.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Hilary Foulkes – Our 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner!

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to meet and learn from Hilary Foulkes, our 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award winner at the Calgary Influential Women in Business Awards!

Hilary’s career is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and breaking barriers. From her early days as a geologist to leading billion-dollar transactions in investment banking and oil & gas, she has paved the way for women in male-dominated industries. As a board member, business leader, and passionate mentor, she is dedicated to empowering the next generation of female leaders.

In this intimate Lunch with a Leader session, Hilary will share her journey, insights on leadership, and her philosophy on mentorship—focusing not just on career advancement, but on self-discovery, resilience, and shaping the future of business.

This is your chance to hear firsthand from one of Calgary’s most influential business leaders and connect with like-minded professionals.

• • Date: Wednesday, March 28, 2025
  • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
  • Location: Calgary Petroleum Club, 319 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0L5
  • Cost: $50 + fees and GST

About Hilary Foulkes
Hilary has spent over 40 years leading in geology, investment banking, and corporate governance. She has held executive roles at Scotiabank, Penn West Exploration, and Tudor Pickering Holt & Co., and serves on the boards of Chord Energy and Pine Cliff Energy.

Beyond her corporate leadership, Hilary is a champion for STEM education as Vice-Chair of Let’s Talk Science and a devoted mentor for women in business. She believes true leadership isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about lifting others along the way.

Join us for an exclusive mentoring opportunity with Wendy Beauchesne, CEO of the Alberta Cancer Foundation, where she will share insights on leadership, fundraising, and driving impactful transformation in the health sector.

• • • Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9
    • Cost: $50 + fees and gst

New Lunch With A Leader Registration Process

Due to overwhelming interest, we’re introducing a new registration process to ensure fairness and accommodate as many members as possible.

How it works:

• • Complete the registration form by February 27, 2025. (Button Below)
  • Attendees will be selected based on availability and the number of spots.
  • Completing the form does not guarantee a spot at the event.
  • If selected, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the Axis Connects team with instructions to purchase your ticket.
  • Once you’ve purchased your ticket online, you will be officially registered for the event and are guaranteed a spot.

We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to seeing you at lunch!

About Wendy

Wendy Beauchesne is the Chief Executive Officer of the Alberta Cancer Foundation, leading with a deep passion for fundraising, building high-performance teams, and turning strategic goals into measurable results. Since joining the Foundation in 2020, Wendy has played a pivotal role in advancing one of Western Canada’s largest health campaigns, supporting the development of the Arthur J. E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Calgary, which is set to become one of the largest cancer centers in North America. She also inspires ongoing giving to cancer centers across Alberta, including the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton.

Before her tenure at the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Wendy had a distinguished career in the health sector, including roles at STARS Air Ambulance, where she led expansion into Saskatchewan and Manitoba and spearheaded a $130 million capital campaign as Executive Vice President. Wendy also served in leadership roles at Alberta’s health authorities, where she facilitated the amalgamation of 12 independent communications departments into a unified provincial team.

In 2020, Wendy was selected as one of 250 Canadians to be part of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference.

Lunch with a Leader Featuring Zoe Harrison

Join us for an exclusive mentoring opportunity with Zoe Harrison, a corporate board director and expert in innovation, digital transformation, and diversity.

• • • Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Sign up before: February 12, 2025

About Zoe Harrison

Zoe Harrison is an experienced corporate board director with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and increasing diversity on boards. Her current board portfolio includes Peace Hills General Insurance Company, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association, and Cybera Technology. Previously, she worked as a board governance facilitator with the Alberta Government Board Development Program and for Downstage Theatre.

A proud University of Calgary alumni, She has had a 20-year international career in corporate strategy & innovation for financial services. She currently runs an independent consulting practice that supports the growth of fintech in Western Canada and corporate innovation programs.

Who Should Attend:

• • • Professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills in governance and innovation.
    • Individuals passionate about advancing diversity and digital transformation in their industries.
    • Anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice from a leader with a dynamic, global perspective.

New Lunch With A Leader Registration Process

Due to overwhelming interest, we’re introducing a new registration process to ensure fairness and accommodate as many members as possible.

📌 How it works:

• • • Complete the form by February 12.
    • Attendees will be randomly selected based on availability and the number of spots.
    • If selected, you’ll receive confirmation and the next steps to secure your ticket.

We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to seeing you at lunch!

Lunch with a Leader Featuring Byron Neiles

Join us for an exclusive mentoring opportunity with Byron Neiles, an accomplished leader and visionary in business, energy, and community development.

• • • Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Registration Opens: January 28, 2025 @ 9am.

About Byron Neiles

Byron is a director of Calgary Economic Development and ENMAX Corporation and in July 2024 retired as the Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer at Enbridge Inc. in Calgary after 30 years with the Company. During that time he led the Major Projects Division, IT, Human Resources, Safety & Operational Reliability, Real Estate, Supply Chain Management, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability as well as Regulatory, Law and Customer Care with its Natural Gas utility in Ontario. Prior to that he served as a policy advisor to two Canadian federal energy ministers.

Byron holds an MBA from the University of Calgary, a BA from the University of Regina and is a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. Byron has also earned the NACD CERT certificate in Cybersecurity Oversight from the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. He is the former Co-Chair of the annual Global Business Forum in Banff, and active community volunteer as Trustee of Makadiff Sports and Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra Foundations, member of the Dean’s Management Advisory Council at the Haskayne School of Business School as well as a member of cabinet of the OWN Cancer Campaign with the Alberta Cancer Foundation and cabinet for the new Science Hub at the University of Calgary. Byron, his wife Lisa and three adult daughters live in Calgary.

Who Should Attend:

• • • Professionals looking to grow as leaders in business and governance.
    • Individuals interested in learning from an expert in energy, sustainability, and strategic community impact.
    • Anyone seeking inspiration and insights from a leader with extensive experience in shaping impactful organizations and initiatives.

Note to Attendees

Due to the high demand and interest in our Lunch with a Leader program, we kindly ask that if you have attended a recent lunch, please consider giving others who have not yet had the opportunity a chance to register.

If you have previously attended an event and are registered for an upcoming one, please note that the Axis Connects team may reach out to you to issue a refund in order to make room for new attendees.

Please note that Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@axisconnects.com.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us create equal opportunities for all members to participate.

Join us for an inspiring and exclusive mentoring opportunity with Gitane De Silva, a distinguished leader and visionary in public policy, energy, and intergovernmental relations.

• • • Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Registration Opens: January 17, 2025 @ 9am.

About Gitane De Silva

Gitane De Silva, ICD.D, is a public policy leader with extensive executive experience across provincial, national, and international arenas. She is the Founder and Principal of GDStrategic, a consulting firm. As the CEO of the Canada Energy Regulator (2020-2023), she ensured the safe delivery of energy while advancing environmental protection and Reconciliation. Gitane has held pivotal roles, including Alberta’s Deputy Minister for International and Intergovernmental Relations and Alberta’s Senior Representative in Washington, DC. A seasoned diplomat, she has been instrumental in trade negotiations, energy infrastructure promotion, and fostering Canada-U.S. relations.

Gitane also serves as a Special Advisor at Blue Rock Law, a Global Fellow with the Canada Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, and a Board Member with the Public Policy Forum. Passionate about gender equality, public policy, and dark chocolate, Gitane enjoys time with her family, reading, and exploring the Rocky Mountains.

Who Should Attend:

This event is perfect for:

• • • Professionals aspiring to grow as leaders in public policy and governance.
    • Individuals seeking to learn from an expert in intergovernmental relations, energy, and Canada-U.S. dynamics.
    • Anyone inspired to gain insights from a leader shaping impactful policies and strategies.

Note to Attendees

Due to the high demand and interest in our Lunch with a Leader program, we kindly ask that if you have attended a recent lunch, please consider giving others who have not yet had the opportunity a chance to register.

If you have previously attended an event and are registered for an upcoming one, please note that the Axis Connects team may reach out to you to issue a refund in order to make room for new attendees.

Please note that Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@axisconnects.com.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us create equal opportunities for all members to participate.

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President at Suncor. With over 25 years of experience in the energy industry, Kent brings a unique and comprehensive understanding of the Canadian energy market, sustainability, and corporate development. His impressive career includes a significant tenure at RBC Capital Markets, where he was a leader in global energy, Indigenous finance, climate change, and energy transition—key areas shaping the future of business and sustainability.

This session offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with one of Alberta’s foremost thought leaders on sustainable energy strategy and corporate growth. Kent’s insights into the evolving energy landscape, sustainable finance, and commitment to diversity make him an inspiring mentor for professionals interested in impactful, forward-thinking leadership.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Nov 18 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

• • • Date: November 28, 2024
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW
    • Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
    • Lunch is included.

Kent Ferguson

Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Kent oversees Suncor’s corporate strategy, sustainability initiatives, and investment portfolio, guiding the company’s commitment to responsible energy and sustainable growth. A CFA charter holder with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, Kent has led transformative projects on emissions, energy policy, and environmental markets. Before joining Suncor, Kent was Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Energy at RBC, where he spearheaded initiatives focused on energy transition and inclusive finance.

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer at AIMCo. With over 20 years of technology and leadership experience, Denise is a trailblazer in Alberta’s tech community, bringing a wealth of expertise in areas ranging from AI and microprocessor development to innovation in financial services. She is a passionate advocate for growing Alberta’s technology skills and building an inclusive, future-ready workforce, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring leaders in tech and beyond.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Oct 22 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

• • Date: November 7, 2024
  • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
  • Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
    • Lunch is included.

 

Denise Man   

Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo  

Denise leads AIMCo’s Global Technology and Data team to leverage the technology infrastructure of the organization to invest on behalf of AIMCo’s clients more efficiently.  With more than 20 years of technology and leadership experience, ranging from artificial intelligent speech recognition research to the development of the 64-bit Itanium microprocessor at Hewlett Packard. During this time, she was awarded seven patents and has several publications with the U.S. Patent Office. Prior to joining AIMCo, Ms. Man served in a variety of executive roles including leading the Technology, Innovation and Engineering teams at ATB Financial, and the Technology Operations teams at Enbridge Pipelines, as Chief Technology Officer.

A University of Calgary alumni, Ms. Man holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Computer Engineering.  Ms. Man’s vision is to grow Alberta’s technology skills through inclusive practices to mobilize a diverse and future-ready workforce. Denise is an active mentor, role model and sponsor in the Alberta technology and business communities, and she was recognized for her efforts as the 2021 recipient of the AXIS Calgary Influential Women in Business award in the Large Enterprise category.

Denise serves as Chair of the Band Capital Investment Advisory Committee and is a member of the Coril Board of Directors, and National Music Center Board of Directors. She is also a former member of the Mount Royal University Board of Governors, SAIT’s School of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Dean’s Technology Advisory, and Tua Financials Board of Directors.