ACW Council Candidate: Ken Zelazny

By: Kate Smith

Having spent more than 25 years in business leadership, coaching, and executive development, Ken Zelazny is running for a position on ACW Council.

The CEO of Z2K Business Solutions Inc. and a Certified Executive and Master Business Coach, Zelazny’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology from DeVry University. He also has an education with advanced professional development in Operations Management and certification as an Advanced Technology Manager through the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University.

Zelazny has also completed Leadership Development through the Niagara Institute and Financial Accounting Management at McMaster University.

In addition, he is a Certified Business Coach and Certified Executive Coach through the International Business Coaching Institute.

Throughout his career, he held senior leadership positions with Com Dev International, L3 Communications WESCAM and ActionCOACH International, including serving as COO of the ActionCOACH Global OAice and CEO of ActionCOACH Corporate Firms.

He also worked internationally, including establishing and managing a high-technology manufacturing operation in Xi’an, China.

“These experiences have provided me with extensive expertise in leadership, strategic planning, operations, economic development, problem-solving and working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures,” said Zelazny.

Zelazny has been actively involved in community organizations and has served as chair on multiple Boards of Directors, including a few Chambers of Commerce, as well as Past Chair of the Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation.

With a wealth of experience and education, Zelazny says he is running for council because he believes he can make a meaningful contribution to ACW.

“Having grown up in a small-town environment, I understand the importance of strong communities where people know, support and look out for one another,” explained Zelazny.

Throughout his career, Zelazny has helped businesses and organizations solve problems, make sound decisions, manage change and plan.

“We need to manage growth responsibly, maintain and improve our infrastructure and services, support local businesses and agriculture, protect the character of our communities and make responsible financial decisions,” stated Zelazny.

He says he wants to bring his experience, energy and practical approach to council while listening to residents and working collaboratively with council, staff, businesses, organisations and the community.

“My goal is to help make ACW an even better place to live, work, raise a family and do business — not just for today, but for the generations that follow,” furthered Zelazny.

Without any previous political experience, this would be his first time serving if elected.

“I am bringing a fresh perspective, practical experience, and a genuine desire to serve the residents of ACW,” added Zelazny.

Throughout the years, Zelazny has been involved in the community largely centred around leadership, business, economic development and helping organisations and individuals succeed.

He currently serves as chair of the Huron Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Through this role, Zelazny has had the opportunity to work with local businesses, community organisations and municipal leaders on issues impacting the area.

“Throughout my career, I have also spent many years coaching and mentoring business owners and leaders. I have helped people navigate challenges, develop their leadership skills, grow their businesses and create new opportunities,” explained Zelazny.

Since making ACW his community, Zelazny became increasingly involved in local issues and activities and has developed an even greater appreciation for what makes this area special.

“Community involvement is about being present, listening to people, understanding their concerns and being willing to step up when something needs to get done,” added Zelazny.

“That is the kind of community involvement I want to continue through public service — being accessible, listening to residents and working together to make ACW an even stronger community.”

If elected, Zelazny says he will represent all residents of ACW and approach the role with integrity, respect and a commitment to getting results.

Zelazny would like to focus on infrastructure and responsible growth, economic development and supporting local businesses, and housing and affordability.

“We need growth that provides opportunities without creating an unreasonable financial burden for existing taxpayers,” Zelazny said.

At the end of four years, Zelazny would like residents to be able to look back and say that council made measurable progress on infrastructure, responsible growth, economic development and housing while maintaining sound financial management.

For Zelazny, success isn’t about how many motions he puts forward. It’s about whether the municipality is better positioned for the next generation than it was when council started.

“If elected, I will work hard to represent all ACW, not just the people who voted for me,” remarked Zelazny.

“I will bring an independent voice, a practical approach and a commitment to listening, working collaboratively and doing what I believe is right for the municipality and its residents.”

Each candidate was presented with the same interview questions. What is presented in these profiles, is a result of the responses received.