Heather D. Ancrum, J.D., CCEP
Heather D. Ancrum, J.D., CCEP, is a seasoned legal and operations executive with over 25 years of experience advising boards, C-suites, and leadership teams on corporate governance, regulatory compliance, enterprise risk, employment law, and ethics. Currently serving as Deputy General Counsel at the Atlanta Housing Authority, Heather leads legal strategy for a $400M public enterprise, overseeing complex commercial negotiations, building scalable compliance frameworks, and providing strategic guidance to ensure organizational resilience. She is recognized for her ability to balance legal risk with innovation, helping organizations achieve their mission while maintaining operational integrity.
Throughout her career, Heather has demonstrated a unique talent for guiding organizations through change. She has successfully navigated leadership transitions, restructured departments, and aligned legal strategies with broader organizational goals. With extensive cross-functional collaboration across finance, human resources, IT, procurement, and external partners, she is adept at creating efficient processes and operational solutions that drive measurable results. Heather’s work emphasizes a pragmatic, business-aligned approach to legal counsel, ensuring that legal considerations are seamlessly integrated into organizational strategy.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Heather is deeply committed to community engagement and mentorship. She serves as a board member of the Evelyn Ancrum Education Support Systems, supporting breast health awareness and educational scholarships for youth. A recognized leader in the legal community, she has held leadership positions with the Atlanta Bar Association and actively contributes to advancing legal operations and compliance standards. Passionate about empowering organizations to thrive, Heather is a trusted advisor who protects, guides, and inspires those she serves.
• Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional
• Attorney
• Tulane University Law School - JD
• EVELYN ANCRUM EDUCATION SUPPORT SYSTEMS INC
• Atlanta Bar Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining professionalism while approaching challenges as opportunities for solutions. I focus on being solution-oriented and consistently prioritize the well-being of both my community and my team.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to treat everyone equally. I learned this while shadowing a litigator in court, observing firsthand how respect and fairness can shape professional relationships and outcomes.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to be bold and advocate for yourself. Embrace opportunities confidently and don’t be afraid to make your voice heard.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include effectively utilizing available resources, expanding staff, and integrating technology. At the same time, the greatest opportunity lies in the ability to serve and make a meaningful impact on my community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are accountability, integrity, and taking the initiative. I strive to uphold these principles in every decision I make and action I take.