In her role as interim CEO, Astle will be responsible for leading Chugach’s federal and commercial business lines and the 4,500 employees who support them. She will continue to serve as a key member of Chugach’s executive leadership team and will work closely with Chairman of the Board Sheri Buretta and President Josie Hickel to advance the corporation’s overarching strategic plan.
“Not only does Angie bring an impressive breadth and depth of credentials and experience to this critical position, but she has a proven track record and a sense of urgency we believe will be impactful in this role,” said Buretta. “We’re grateful for her leadership during a crucial time in Chugach’s transformation. The Board is confident Angie will provide stability to our organization, while continuing to chart Chugach’s course in the direction of growth.”
Astle has been with Chugach for more than a quarter century, climbing the ranks from the accounting department to become an integral member of the executive team in 2010. Prior to joining Chugach, she worked at Deloitte and Touche as a senior auditor serving a variety of clients including Alaska Native Corporations, banking institutions, and other for-profit organizations.
“I’m honored to continue working alongside the Board, executive leadership team, employees, and partners focused on Chugach’s legacy of improving the lives of its shareholders,” said Astle. “I’ve witnessed the corporation evolve throughout my 25-year tenure, and although we continue to navigate a challenging business environment, I believe Chugach has the financial strength and operational agility to create a more efficient and profitable corporation that can create sustainable value for the long-term.”
Astle has called Alaska home for three decades, and is a committed advocate for local non-profits, including leading Chugach’s annual Alaska Run for Women campaign and serving as an ambassador for the American Heart Association’s local chapter. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance and a master’s in accounting from University of Montana. She has been a Certified Public Accountant in Alaska since 1997, a Chartered Global Management Accountant and a current member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and Financial Executives International (FEI).
During this interim period, the Board has commenced a search for a permanent CEO, and has partnered with an executive search firm to identify exceptional candidates from Alaska and around the country.