Lifeworks Services Welcomes New Chief People Officer

Richfield, Minnesota (February 3, 2025) – Lifeworks Services, Inc., a nonprofit partnering with people with disabilities and championing inclusion efforts for 60 years, is excited to announce the appointment of Heather Besonen as Chief People Officer.

“We are so excited to welcome Heather to ‘Team Lifeworks.’ Heather’s expertise in human resources, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and strategic leadership will directly benefit our 5,000+ employees statewide. Heather’s role will be critical in helping Lifeworks live up to our vision of a world where disability inclusion is the standard – not the exception,” says Gertrude Matemba-Mutasa, President and CEO.

Formerly the Chief Operating Officer at Guild, a nonprofit providing mental health, housing, and employment services, Besonen comes to Lifeworks with 25 years of human resources experience. Besonen holds a degree in Economics and Advanced Equity and Diversity Certificate from the University of Minnesota.

“I’m incredibly excited to join the Lifeworks Team at a moment of accelerated growth and innovation,” Heather shares. “The depth and quality of our mission, along with seeing the core values in action when I met with Gertrude and the leadership team, made it quickly apparent that Lifeworks is the place for me. Human resources is a people-focused field, and I look forward to working with an incredible group of people and continuing to foster a culture built on core values that define how we show up for each other.”

About Lifeworks

Since 1965, Lifeworks Services Inc. has advanced disability inclusion. From grassroots beginnings, Lifeworks has evolved alongside people with disabilities and their families, supporting over 5,500 people annually. Together, we reimagine what’s possible through innovative solutions for careers, daily activities, community engagement, and in-home services. We collaborate with employers, communities, and government agencies to co-create expanded opportunities that build more accessible, equitable, and diverse communities. Learn more: lifeworks.org.