Premier Announces Changes in Senior Ranks of Public Service

Premier Stephen McNeil announced changes to senior roles in the public service today, Jan. 22.

George McLellan will join the province as deputy minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

Mr. McLellan is a former chief administrative officer with Halifax Regional Municipality and has held a number of senior management positions with the Royal Bank in Canada and internationally, and was president and CEO of Medavie EMS. In July 2014, he was appointed administrator to oversee the province's nine district health authorities during consolidation.

"George's commitment to Nova Scotia is clear," said Premier McNeil. "He is very well respected, provincially and nationally, and brings a wealth of public and private sector experience to the province at a time when we are focused on rigorous fiscal management and an ambitious forward agenda."

Margaret MacDonald moves from Finance and Treasury Board to be deputy minister of Intergovernmental Affairs. Her experience in a wide range of federal-provincial positions, including finance, labour and immigration, positions her to provide strategic advice in this portfolio.

"Margaret is a key, seasoned advisor and will be instrumental in significant upcoming federal-provincial negotiations," said Premier McNeil.

Elizabeth Cody, deputy minister of Environment, is retiring from the public service on Jan. 31. Frances Martin, associate deputy minister of Health and Wellness and Seniors, will take over as deputy minister of Environment.

"I would like to sincerely thank Elizabeth for her contribution to our province. She has had an exemplary career and I wish her all the very best as she embarks on her retirement," said Premier McNeil. "Frances brings very strong credentials to her new role and I look forward to her leadership contribution in her new portfolio."

The appointments are effective Feb. 1.