CHICAGO — Kathy Tinker, executive director of the Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council (HLAC), will be leaving the organization effective Tuesday, according to an HLAC press release issued this morning. “Ms. Tinker has chosen to pursue other interests and opportunities,” it says.
Tinker joined HLAC as sales director in 2006 and was named executive director in October 2008.
HLAC is an independent council that has developed a comprehensive set of standards for healthcare-textile processing. Laundries inspected and accredited by HLAC do so voluntarily.
Tinker “has been instrumental in assisting the Council through operational transitions and with the significant growth in the number of accredited laundries,” HLAC says. The organization accredited its 100th healthcare laundry last May, and the number has continued to grow.
“The HLAC Board of Directors gratefully acknowledges the many contributions to HLAC and wish her great success in future endeavors.”
When reached for comment, Tinker told American Laundry News that she is leaving HLAC on good terms. “I loved every minute working with HLAC. It was a privilege to serve, and I’m proud of the progress we made. It is a healthy organization.”
She says she has no immediate plans, and is unsure if she will pursue another position in the laundry/linen industry.
HLAC will be exploring its management options and has begun an executive search to fill the role. Those having interest in the position may contact HLAC Chair Nancy Bjerke at 210-520-3355, [email protected], for more information.
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