ICBC

Joyce Galuska

"I know Graeme, from my long-time role on the Executive Board of MoveUP, where I recognized a desperate need for wholesale change. I was struck by how quickly Graeme identified and implemented fiscal changes as Secretary Treasurer and I am even more impressed to see him as the President where he leads with compassion, decisiveness, respect and has brought a level of accountability that had been lacking. Graeme is not afraid to make difficult decisions and act on changes that create a better working environment for everyone. 

He is intolerant of parochial ideas of disrespect, abuse, and rhetoric, instead marshaling the way to a more respectful and tolerant workplace and making responsible financial decisions that work better for our union and make it stronger."

ICBC

Dimitri Ossinsky

The first time I heard about Graeme Hutchison was after I was elected to the MoveUp Executive Board in 2021. A former board member congratulated me on my election win but warned me about the tough environment I was going into. They told me about other members on the board and highlighted Graeme as someone open to change, different ideas and treating others with respect and dignity regardless of political views. 

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I ran for board to create real change and the leadership of the union was not thrilled to see me elected. The only reason I was able to persevere and succeed in making changes within our union was because of Graeme’s example. I am astonished that Graeme has been able to withstand the intense political pressure there is in the Executive Board to conform, to stay quiet, and to make decisions that benefit yourself politically rather than serving the members. He isn’t a politician that has had high ambition for high office, he is someone who deeply cares about being of service to others when called upon.

Outside being an Executive Board member, he first held high union office when he was elected as our Secretary Treasurer in 2022 and President in 2023. Both these by-elections occurred through our Executive Council where over 100 members from all our units entrusted him with two of the most important roles within our union. It says a lot that he got the confidence of our council twice in such a short span of time, even more so knowing Graeme comes out of Community Savings, one of the smaller units within MoveUp. He was able to build consensus and support from ICBC members, Utilities members and Combined Unit members. 

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This election isn’t about one person, this election is about changing our union’s culture. Creating a union where members are the focus, not the elected leadership. A union that values and includes all of us regardless of our who we are or what we believe. Graeme is a man of character, decency, and integrity. I’m proud to call Graeme a friend and am honoured to endorse him President of our union MoveUp.

BC Hydro

Rysa Kronebusch

I have worked with Graeme over the years in three different capacities,

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1. As an executive board member, Graeme was not intimidated to take on the hard conversation and ensure our defense fund was protected.

2. As the Secretary Treasurer, Graeme was faced with some very hard decisions but these issues had to be address for the betterment of our union, protecting our members’ dues and he had a fiduciary duty that he took very seriously. He improved and streamlined our expense process.  He reported out to council and the board detailed reports and was always prepared to answer the hard questions

3. Now as our President, Graeme has given this union focus, he has put in place an organizing department where at times others didn’t see the value of organizing. Graeme understands the importance of growing this department giving the organizers the resources and support to do this important work!

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Graeme is also President of the Fraser Valley Labour council, where working with other affiliates to take on the anti SOGI protests, working towards a more progressive government in the Fraser Valley.
I encourage you to vote for Graeme as our union president to ensure this great work continues.

Community Savings Credit Union

Satwinder Grewal

I am writing to express my enthusiastic endorsement for Graeme Hutchison as President in the upcoming election. Having worked alongside Graeme for over 16 years at Community Savings
Credit Union, I have witnessed firsthand his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment
to our union.

Graeme's journey within our organization is a testament to his capability and passion for serving

our members. From his early days as a dedicated board member to his tenure as secretary-
treasurer, and now as our current president, Graeme has continually demonstrated his ability to

lead with integrity and vision.

One of Graeme's most remarkable qualities is his ability to listen attentively and empathize with
the needs of our membership. He fosters an inclusive environment where every voice is heard
and valued, which has resulted in increased engagement and participation within our union.
Moreover, Graeme's compassionate nature and genuine concern for the well-being of our
members set him apart as a leader who truly cares. He consistently goes above and beyond to
advocate for our rights and champion initiatives that benefit our community.

What truly sets Graeme apart is his innovative thinking and strategic vision for the future. He not
only identifies challenges but also presents practical solutions and opportunities for growth.

Under his leadership, I am confident that our union will continue to thrive and adapt to the ever-
changing landscape.

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In conclusion, Graeme Hutchison embodies the qualities of a dynamic and effective leader. His
proven track record, coupled with his compassionate demeanor and visionary leadership, make him the ideal candidate for the position of President. I wholeheartedly endorse Graeme and urge you to join me in supporting his candidacy.

ICBC

Robert Starkovich

Before I retired (photo of me in Italy) I sat on the Union Board. I remember meeting Graeme, when he joined us on the board. I was immediately impressed with his honesty and due diligence.

Together we started to make a difference. Graeme was able to point out financial and procedural issues where our union could be better. And our union is better due to Graeme.

He has a great way of bringing people together. But most of all he cares. He cares about people and he cares about our union. I highly endorse Graeme Hutchison to be our Union President.

Fortis BC

Norm Sticklemann, Executive Board

Graeme has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of MoveUP's mission and values. He has shown an unwavering commitment to advocating for our rights, improving our working conditions, and ensuring our voices are heard. His leadership skills and ability to listen and collaborate make him an ideal candidate for President.

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As the current President, Graeme has proven his ability to negotiate effectively, make tough decisions, and work towards solutions that benefit all members. He has a clear vision for our union's future and the strategic planning skills to guide us there.

I am confident our union will continue to grow stronger and more united under Graeme's leadership. I urge you to cast your vote for Graeme as President. 

Let's work together to build a brighter future for all MoveUP members.

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Thank you for considering my endorsement.

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Sincerely,

Norm Stickelmann

Executive Board, FortisBC

Lu'Ma Native Housing

Colin Sanderson

Hello, my name is Colin Sanderson and I would like to share that I stand behind our current President Graeme Hutchison for re-election.  I believe in the integrity of this man.  He is, as we say in my hood – a Stand Up Man!  Graeme is an easy person to talk to and has always had an open ear to listen to what I and others have to say.  I think that is important in a leader – to listen to those that they wish to lead. Whether he is listening to criticism or ideas on growth Graeme is a person that will take MoveUP into the future with pride for all our members.

On a profession perspective Graeme comes to us, MoveUP, with an exceptional background in finance. We need a leader who not only understands the world of finance but also has a strong working knowledge of all its perspectives.  For the last few years MoveUP and its branches of leadership committees have been debating our MoveUP financials and I know Graeme is that leader that will ensure that the MoveUP financials will be stable for generations to come.

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Lastly – I believe in the integrity of Graeme. He is not the person to stand around and watch or listen to bad things being done to anyone or any group of people. Graeme is the type of person that will stand up and state what is wrong openly to all – including those that are doing the wrong.  We need a leader that wont play favorites or be afraid to stick their neck out. We need a leader that will stand up for both the single member and his team of leaders that put time in with MoveUP committees. If you wish to understand further why I strongly believe that Graeme is this leader – just ask him what he does for fun on his time off from work. 😊

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We need change and stability in MoveUP, we need a leader who is not afraid to speak out and at the same time listen to those he leads. I am 100% convinced that Graeme will bring the change that we desire and need in MoveUP.

BC Hydro

Melanie Greenlaw

Having had the privilege of working alongside Graeme Hutchison during his tenure as an Executive Board Member, Secretary-Treasurer, and now as President of Move Up, I am confident in his ability to lead our organization with integrity, passion, and dedication. Graeme's journey from the Executive Board to his current role is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the principles of the labor movement.

As an Executive Board Member, he demonstrated strong leadership and a keen understanding of the issues facing our members. His ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and advocate for the needs of workers set him apart as a natural leader.

In his role as Secretary-Treasurer, Graeme's financial acumen and strategic vision were instrumental in ensuring the fiscal health and stability of our Union. He worked tirelessly to manage our finances responsibly and transparently, earning the trust and confidence of our members.

Now, as President, Graeme continues to champion the rights of workers and fight for social and economic justice. His leadership is characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and a relentless commitment to advancing the interests of all our members. I am proud to endorse Graeme Hutchison for re-election as President of Move Up. With his leadership, I am confident that our union will continue to thrive and make meaningful progress in the fight for workers' rights.

BC Hydro

Marcy Marko

I am honored to endorse Graeme Hutchinson, the current president of MoveUp. I've known Graeme for several years, starting from my first term as an Executive Council member and more closely through our work together on the audit committee.

Graeme is approachable, empathetic, and genuinely cares about the union and its members. He is a straightforward, honest, and compassionate leader who takes the time to understand and address people's needs. His dedication to the union is evident in everything he does, and his leadership fosters trust and collaboration.

I wholeheartedly support Graeme Hutchinson and am confident in the positive impact he will continue to have on MoveUp.

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