Executive Team

We’d like you to meet our executive team.

Our team is a dynamic mix of experts with deep experience across workplace, business development, international business and trade, business sustainability and ESG, brand, marketing and communications, and financial management. These dedicated professionals bring a broad range of strategic skills to the table but most of all, they bring a human touch and a deep and genuine understanding of Queensland businesses. The team is passionate about being a strong voice and source of support, inspiration and advice for businesses of all sizes, across every sector in every part of the state.

Heidi Cooper

CEO

Heidi Cooper is a leading business executive and Chief Executive Officer of Business Chamber Queensland, where she advocates for the strategic growth and sustainable transformation of Queensland’s business environment. In this role, she leads with purpose, driving business success while shaping the state’s economic future through policy influence, stakeholder collaboration and strategic reform.

With a career spanning business, law, corporate affairs and strategy, Heidi has led major initiatives for Top 20 ASX-listed companies, top-tier law firms and industry bodies across infrastructure, energy, financial services, education and sport. She is a recognised leader in aligning business outcomes with social and environmental impact and advancing sustainable business practices. She brings a global perspective to local leadership, strengthened by participation in the Chambers of Commerce international network and executive programs at Harvard and Princeton Universities.

A qualified solicitor, experienced board director and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Heidi has significant expertise in governance, risk and corporate leadership. She is currently a member of the Jobs Queensland Board, Super Member Council Employer Forum, and several government advisory boards.

Deeply committed to education, arts and community, Heidi is an active philanthropist and is a member of the Brisbane Festival Giving Committee, St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace School Advisory Council, and is Deputy Chair of the St Margaret’s Foundation Board.

Heidi holds multiple qualifications in law, public policy and management and was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland.

Rachel Colaso

General Manager, Business Growth and International

Rachel was appointed Business Chamber Queensland’s General Manager – Business Development and Member Relations in April 2023. Rachel is a dynamic and strategic thinker; excels in collaboration and believes in the power of teamwork to achieve a shared vision. Rachel’s expertise lies in managing high profile programs, strategic and team management, cultivating strong stakeholder relationships, driving business development and effective communications.

Rachel brings over 25 years’ experience to Business Chamber Queensland and has a proven track record in delivering impactful outcomes, and her evidence-based approach to developing strategic activities sets her apart. Throughout her career, Rachel has gained valuable experience across various sectors, including education and training, international aid and development, economic development, and non-profit organisations.

Rachel brings a wealth of experience and strategic acumen to Business Chamber Queensland and is well placed to make a significant impact to the customer journey, business development and the Regional Chamber network.

Catherine Hughes

General Manager, External Affairs

Catherine joined Business Chamber Queensland in August 2022 as General Manager, External Affairs.

She brings more than 20 years’ experience to the role with expertise across the full range of communications disciplines including brand strategy, marketing, corporate sponsorships, events management, media and government relations, and internal communications.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Catherine held senior leadership roles in the brand and communications teams of some of the nation’s biggest companies including Sunsuper and St George Wealth. She has also held senior policy roles within state government.

Catherine has an extensive record of executing brand and marketing campaigns to grow purpose-led brands and create positive, productive, and meaningful engagement between companies, customers, and communities.

Phillip McCaw

General Manager, Finance and Corporate Services

Phill joins Business Chamber Queensland with two decades of senior management experience and a strong background in complex accounting and business operations.

His previous roles include Chief Corporate Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Autism Queensland, Head of Finance and Technology at Open Minds, Head of Shared Services Transformation at Toll, and various senior finance positions at Runge Pincock Minarco Limited.

Phill is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) and has a proven track record of leading transformative initiatives, implementing strategic financial planning, and driving operational excellence through collaboration and innovative problem-solving.

Bonnie McCoy

General Manager, Memberships and Business Advisory

Bonnie McCoy brings close to a decade of experience in customer-focused strategy, business development, and operational excellence.

Bonnie holds a Master of Business Analytics from Deakin University, enhancing her ability to lead data-driven strategy and decision-making. Her expertise in data and market insights enables her to develop tailored advisory solutions that create sustainable growth opportunities for Queensland businesses.

Bonnie is passionate about fostering a strong and dynamic business ecosystem in Queensland. With experience across industries including insurance, banking, retail, hospitality, and health. Her expertise in strategy, digital transformation, and team leadership ensures she is well-positioned to support the Chamber’s mission of empowering businesses through connection, advocacy, and advisory services.

Cara Westerman

General Manager, Business Sustainability

Cara Westerman joined the team in May 2023. Cara is a passionate change-agent, systems thinker and strategist with a deep understanding of the environmental, social and governance considerations associated with businesses, and the systems in which they operate.

Cara’s background in environmental planning, social impact, urban systems, business advisory and policy development allows her to tackle complex challenges with practical solutions. She has experience leading large multidisciplinary teams through transformative change, with a strong focus on unlocking advantages that come from collaboration, shared accountability and shared value.

Currently pursuing an MBA (Sustainable Leadership) at Griffith University, Cara further enhances her expertise in driving sustainable change and business leadership. With her international experience and focus on integrated city strategies, she adeptly navigates diverse stakeholders and technical disciplines, making her a valuable asset in achieving successful outcomes.