Helena Duncan has been named president and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama, the organization announced Wednesday.
Duncan began her career at BCA, the state’s largest business advocacy organization, in 2020 as director of strategic operations and growth. She is senior vice president of operations and investor relations.
Prior to joining BCA, Duncan had more than 30 years of experience in the financial industry, primarily at the executive management level. She most recently served as regional president for Liberty Bank & Trust.
Effective Dec. 1, Duncan will become BCA’s first African-American president.
In announcing Duncan’s selection as president and CEO, BCA Chairman Mike Kemp said she “has the experience, talent and perspective to lead the BCA effectively and enhance its role as the voice of Alabama business.”
“She is an experienced businesswoman who has worked with a broad cross-section of businesses,” said Kemp in a release. “She speaks the language of business. Her leadership qualities, management experience and work ethic will be valuable assets to BCA as we chart our course for the future.”
Robin Stone has led BCA as interim executive director over the last year and a half.
“Robin has provided efficient, effective leadership during his time at BCA,” said Kemp. “During his tenure, BCA experienced a strong period of successful operations in all aspects of our organization and we are grateful for his contributions. We look forward to his continued support.”
In expressing gratitude over her selection to lead BCA, Duncan said she was “honored to be chosen and entrusted with the responsibility of leading such a prestigious organization.”
“I look forward to implementing our strategic plan that has been developed over the past year,” said Duncan. “My previous roles at BCA have given me a strong knowledge of the organization and our members. As we begin this new chapter, our priority will be to refine and refocus our efforts on energetic, effective advocacy on behalf of our members in Montgomery and at the federal level.”
Duncan was recently named a Yellowhammer Multimedia “2022 Woman of Impact” in recognition of her influence and contributions to Alabama’s business arena and her community.
She had served as chairman of the board for Saint James School, and as a board member for the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce and Child Protect. Duncan is a board member for Dixie Electric Cooperative, YMCA, the Montgomery Committee of 100 and Board of Controls Committee of 100 and Synovus Bank.
Duncan and her husband Clarence live in Montgomery and have two sons, CJ and Collin.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article has been updated.
Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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