© Business in Calgary
CALGARY, AB - Linda Southern-Heathcott, President and CEO of Spruce Meadows and Board Chair of Travel Alberta, has been appointed by Premier Danielle Smith to the newly formed Premier's Investment Council (PIC).
The council brings together senior cabinet ministers and the leaders of Alberta's most significant economic and investment agencies to coordinate the province's approach to attracting large-scale global investment. Chaired by the Premier, the council includes the Ministers of Finance, Energy and Minerals, and Technology and Innovation, along with the heads of organizations such as Alberta Investment Management Corporation, ATB Financial, Invest Alberta, and Alberta Innovates.
"It is an honour to be appointed to the Premier's Investment Council and to contribute to the work of attracting investment that creates jobs and strengthens Alberta's economy," said Linda Southern-Heathcott. "Alberta has an extraordinary story to tell, and tourism is a critical part of that story. When people explore what this province has to offer - whether through world-class sport, cultural events, indigenous experiences, or our natural landscape - they see a place where they want to invest, build, and grow. I look forward to bringing that perspective to the table."
Southern-Heathcott has spent more than five decades building Spruce Meadows into one of the world's premier show jumping venues and a globally recognized sports and entertainment destination that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors to Calgary each year and generates significant economic impact for the region. Under her leadership, the property has expanded into live entertainment, seasonal festivals, professional soccer, corporate hospitality, and most recently Foxtrot, an elevated dining experience that opened in fall 2025.
As Board Chair of Travel Alberta, she brings that same focus on experience-driven economic development to the provincial stage - a perspective that will be central to the council's mandate of positioning Alberta as a destination for global capital and investment.
The Premier's Investment Council was established in spring 2026 and will meet biannually to advise on investment strategy, track high-impact opportunities, and ensure a coordinated, system-wide approach across government and agencies.
© Spruce Meadows Media
Spruce Meadows is a world-class sports and entertainment destination in Calgary, Alberta. Known globally for its prestigious show jumping tournaments, Spruce Meadows is also home to live concerts, seasonal festivals, corporate hospitality, and community events that bring people together year-round. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and built for what's next, Spruce Meadows is where Calgary gathers.
