Nonprofit welcomes new Chief Financial Officer

PeopleNonprofit

Dec 17

Photo courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has hired Heather Zak as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With over two decades of extensive financial leadership experience across healthcare, nonprofit, and research organizations, Zak begins in her new role in January. She replaces Dawn Kibben, who retires in January after nearly 31 years of service to Meijer Gardens.

Zak will oversee all financial operations, supporting Meijer Gardens’ mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts.

“Heather Zak’s exceptional track record in financial strategy, operational excellence and leadership in mission-driven organizations makes her the ideal addition to our team,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Her expertise will support our continued focus on financial stewardship and our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our guests.”

Zak most recently served as CFO at Hope Network, where she provided strategic financial leadership for an organization serving over 34,000 individuals annually across Michigan. Her prior roles include senior finance leadership positions at Corewell Health, where she managed research, medical education, and community health finance teams, and at Van Andel Institute, where she served as Controller for the global biomedical research and science education institute. Zak has also held leadership positions at Plante Moran and with Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids.

“I am thrilled to join Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park—an organization that holds a special place in our community and combines artistry, education, and nature,” said Zak. “The organization’s mission resonates with me, especially the commitment to serving the public with dignity and fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all stakeholders—values I have upheld throughout my career. I look forward to contributing to its ongoing growth and success as we embark on exciting initiatives in the years ahead.”

Beyond her professional work, she has served on numerous boards and actively volunteers her time. She is a member of the Michigan Nonprofit Association and the Grand Valley State University Alumni boards. Additionally, she mentors aspiring leaders through the Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy and the Seidman College of Business mentorship programs and supports initiatives at numerous other nonprofits in West Michigan.