In her prior position as Executive Vice President ANCSA and Community Affairs, Hickel was instrumental in executing groundbreaking land development opportunities for the corporation, including the carbon credit offset (CCO) project and Bering River coal rights transaction. She also spearheaded a massive effort to distribute Chugach’s more than $24 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to shareholders, shareholder-owned businesses, and community organizations within just a few months.
Most recently, she has been a steadfast advocate for continued progress on the Chugach Lands Study Act, which opens the door for a potential land exchange for Chugach.
“As Chugach has evolved, we recognize the importance of a leadership role that can focus solely on nurturing our relationship with our ANCSA lands, our communities, and our culture,” said Board Chair Sheri Buretta. “As a shareholder, Josie has a deep personal connection to the Board’s 100-year vision of Intergenerational Prosperity, and professionally she has an understanding of what it will take to achieve what Chugach leaders put in motion many years ago – a just land exchange for our shareholders.”
Hickel is a lifelong Alaskan with more than three decades of leadership experience at a range of commercial companies. Prior to joining Chugach, she served as chief administrative officer for Petro 49, Inc., where she directed administrative functions for its petroleum distribution and marine transportation operations throughout Alaska and the Yukon Territory. She is an active Board member and volunteer for several nonprofits, including the Alaska Sealife Center, Prince William Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Council and the Resource Development Council of Alaska. She was inducted into the Athena Society in 2012 for outstanding leadership in both business and community service.
In the coming months, Chugach will be recruiting for a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the growth of Chugach’s Business Enterprises and oversee Chugach’s Corporate Services departments.