Heather O'Conner - New West Police Board

Heather O’Connor is an executive leader, social justice advocate, systems-change strategist, and published thought leader with more than 30 years of experience advancing equity, strengthening organizations, and creating pathways to opportunity for communities navigating systemic barriers.

As Managing Director of Programs at the Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver, Heather provides strategic leadership across gender-responsive programs serving women, girls, and families. She also serves as a provincially appointed member of the New Westminster Police Board, bringing her experience in community leadership, justice reform, organizational governance, and systems change to civilian oversight of policing. For more than a decade, she has also contributed to provincial justice reform through PARCA.

A first-generation Canadian of West African and Jamaican heritage, Heather brings a perspective grounded in lived experience, community, and a deep commitment to justice, accountability, equity, and inclusive leadership. She believes effective police governance requires thoughtful oversight, strong community relationships, and a willingness to engage diverse perspectives in addressing complex public safety challenges.

Heather’s writing and thought leadership have appeared in magazines and newspapers, and her work has been featured by CTV News and Global News. When navigating complex challenges, she draws on her faith as a source of wisdom, courage, and discernment.

Heather holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from Royal Roads University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Simon Fraser University. She is honoured to bring her experience and perspective to the BC Association of Police Boards and to contribute to its work in strengthening police governance across British Columbia.