Senior government leadership changes

Premier Susan Holt has announced changes to the senior ranks of the government.

Release

Executive Council Office, Office of the Premier

August 29, 2025

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Premier Susan Holt has announced changes to the senior ranks of the government.

“I’m pleased to see members of our experienced team of civil servants take on new leadership roles,” said Holt. “Each of them brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their positions that I’m certain will benefit New Brunswickers today and in the future.”

Joel Dickinson has been appointed clerk of the Executive Council and head of the public service.

Judy Wagner will continue in the roles of deputy minister of the Executive Council Office, secretary to cabinet and deputy minister responsible for Women’s Equality.

Rob Kelly, who is currently serving as vice-president of the Regional Development Corporation, will act as president.

All changes are effective Sept. 1.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a complete list of deputy ministers, deputy heads and presidents of Part I Crown corporations (* denotes a change or addition):

  • Joel Dickinson*, clerk of the Executive Council, head of the public service
  • Judy Wagner*, deputy minister of Executive Council Office, secretary to cabinet and deputy minister responsible for Women’s Equality
  • Katie Davey, chief of staff and principal secretary, Office of the Premier
  • Charles Ayles, deputy minister of Intergovernmental Affairs (acting)
  • Cade Libby, deputy minister of Natural Resources
  • Martha O’Sullivan, deputy minister of Indigenous Affairs
  • Jeff Hoyt, deputy minister of Energy
  • Charbel Awad, deputy minister of Environment and Climate Change and deputy minister of Local Government
  • Travis Bergin, deputy minister of Finance and Treasury Board
  • Amy Beswarick, deputy minister of Human Resources
  • Kathy Brewer-Dalton, deputy minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries
  • Ryan Donaghy, deputy minister of Education and Early Childhood Development (anglophone sector)
  • Julie Mason, deputy minister of Education and Early Childhood Development (francophone sector)
  • Eric Beaulieu, deputy minister of Health
  • Traci Simmons, deputy minister responsible for Economic Development and Small Business and CEO of Opportunities NB
  • Daniel Mills, deputy minister of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour
  • Michael Comeau, deputy minister of Justice and Public Safety and deputy attorney general
  • Jim Mehan, deputy minister of Social Development
  • François Boutot, CEO of the New Brunswick Housing Corporation
  • Hélène Bouchard, deputy minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture and deputy minister responsible for official languages
  • Kelly Cain, deputy minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
  • Rob Kelly*, president of the Regional Development Corporation (acting)
  • Renée Laforest, CEO of Service New Brunswick
  • Shawn Hearn*, deputy minister of Communications and Marketing (acting)

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