George Heyman served as president of the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU) for nine years - from June 1999 to June 2008. In over 30 years as a union and social activist Heyman served as vice-president of BCGEU, B.C. Federation of Labour and the National Union of Public and General Employees. He was active in the late 1970’s and 1980’s as a labour and community organizer throughout northwest B.C.

Heyman is a respected negotiator with over 25 years' experience. He was the chief spokesperson in three rounds of negotiations with the B.C. government, representing over 25,000 workers. Heyman is a strong social justice advocate and has been an active participant in campaigns to promote international solidarity among workers.

With a strong record on global warming issues, Heyman was instrumental in introducing a proactive approach to global warming while chair of the B.C. Federation of Labour's Climate Change Working Group (2006-2008).The union began and continues measures to reduce its carbon footprint and encourages members to take steps to deal with global warming through community-based projects such as promoting local food security. The BCGEU was the first union in B.C. to establish an environmental officer.

Heyman is currently a member of the steering committee of the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA-BC) Climate Justice Project, a multi-year research project to develop carbon reduction policies which ensure that societal and industrial transitions are equitable and just.

Heyman is a published poet and an avid runner. He enjoys sea kayaking when he gets the opportunity.