What It's Really Like to Be a WIN Co-Chair

If you've ever considered volunteering as a WIN committee co-chair, you may be wondering what the experience is really like. How much time does it take? What kind of support can you expect? What makes the role rewarding?

To answer those questions, we sat down with Karen Hecht, Ph.D., WIN Science Committee Co-Chair, to talk about her experience leading one of WIN's most active committees. From the support she received when stepping into the role to the impact the committee has made for members, Karen shares an honest look at what it's like to help shape the future of WIN.

What is one thing that surprised you about being a WIN co-chair?

Karen: “I’ve been genuinely impressed by how collaborative and self‑sufficient WIN members are. The sub‑committee co‑chairs and volunteers consistently drive WIN initiatives with energy and purpose, and our liaisons help streamline communication with the board and MarCom so everything stays aligned with WIN’s objectives and our work remains visible.

I feel very well supported, and that makes the work not only manageable, but deeply rewarding.”

Anything you wish you knew before applying to be a WIN co-chair?

“I wish I had known how welcoming and encouraging everyone would be towards me as the new WIN Science Co‑Chair. I probably wouldn’t have been as nervous about taking on the responsibility then. Not only did I have good training and support from my fellow co-chair, Karin, and executive director, Rebecca, but all the volunteers helped bring me up to speed and shared both kind and helpful feedback. That made everything feel easier, and launched me into the role so that I quickly felt at home in it.”

If life circumstances change and you need to step down before your two-year commitment is up, is that okay?

“I would be sad to step away, but I also know I’d be met with nothing but understanding and support and that there would be plenty of capable and energetic people waiting to step up and lead. We’re all volunteers, giving what we can for as long as we’re able to do so meaningfully. I’ve seen people take breaks or transition out entirely, and their contributions were always valued, their impact always felt, and their connections continued well beyond their time with WIN. This group is genuinely supportive and never asks anyone to push past what they can give gladly or within the boundaries of their comfort and capacity.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of as a WIN co-chair?

“I’m proud of the level of engagement and accessibility of our committee. We have 20 people in our meetings on a slow day. That’s because we’ve found so many ways for members to engage with the Science Committee through seven different sub-committees, each with active projects. This means we benefit from a wide range of voices and perspectives. That diversity is exactly what allows us to build meaningful tools and connections. The WIN NutraNavigator for product‑innovation support, the research and consultant databases that help members find the right partners, and the long list of high‑quality webinars we’ve hosted are all examples of how our committee has made a tangible impact within WIN.

I’m also thrilled when WIN connections help individuals grow in their careers. Our colleague Opeyemi recently secured an internship at Haleon through relationships she built within WIN, and seeing that kind of growth and member-to-members support is incredibly rewarding. I hope we can continue creating those opportunities at an even greater scale across the globe.”

What is the best thing about being a WIN co-chair?

“The volunteers are extraordinary. The group naturally attracts some of the smartest, most driven, and most passionate people in our field. My instinct is simply to step aside and let them shine. It’s a genuine pleasure to be surrounded and influenced by such an exceptional group of people who represent the very best our industry has to offer.”

If you've been thinking about getting more involved with WIN, this is your opportunity. Serving as a committee co-chair is more than a volunteer role — it's a chance to help shape the future of our organization, build meaningful relationships with colleagues around the world, and create opportunities for others to grow alongside you.

As Karen's experience shows, you won't be doing it alone. You'll be joining a collaborative community of passionate volunteers who are eager to support one another and advance WIN's mission together.

Ready to take the next step? We'd love to hear from you. Learn more about the available committee co-chair opportunities and submit your application: Apply here