Premier Simpson announces GNWT senior management changes

Premier R.J. Simpson announced two appointments to the senior ranks of the territorial public service today.

Mr. James Fulford is appointed Deputy Minister of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE). Mr. Fulford most recently served as Associate Deputy Minister of Housing Northwest Territories and has more than twenty-three years of progressive senior management experience with the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). Mr. Fulford has served in roles across the territorial government, including in the departments of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Justice, the Office of the Regulator of Oil and Gas Operations, and as Chief Negotiator in the Office of Devolution Initiatives in the Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs (EIA).

Mr. Gary Brennan is appointed Deputy Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA). Mr. Brennan most recently served as Assistant Deputy Minister, Regional Operations with the Department of Infrastructure and has held various progressively more senior positions since starting with the GNWT in 2007. Before joining the GNWT, Mr. Brennan worked with a small public accounting firm, the RCMP and Sport North.

Premier Simpson would like to thank Ms. Laura Gareau for her many years of dedicated service to the people of the Northwest Territories. Ms. Gareau is retiring from the GNWT in April with almost 22 years of public service. She has served in various senior roles, including as Assistant Deputy Minister, Corporate Services with the Department of ECE, Deputy Secretary to Cabinet with the Department of EIA and most recently as the Deputy Minister of MACA.

Both appointments take effect on April 1, 2024

Quote

“I congratulate Mr. Fulford and Mr. Brennan on their appointments as Deputy Ministers. Their extensive experience, proven leadership skills, and commitment to the people of the Northwest Territories make them well-suited to these important roles. I am confident that they will bring innovative solutions and drive significant progress in their respective departments. These appointments mark an exciting new chapter for the Northwest Territories as we strive towards a future that promises greater opportunities and improved well-being and safety for our residents.”

- R.J. Simpson,  Premier of the Northwest Territories

Quick Facts

• Deputy Ministers are the non-elected head of a GNWT department.
• The Commissioner in Executive Council appoints Deputy Ministers on the advice of the Premier.
• Deputy Ministers serve at pleasure and are accountable to the Premier for the performance of their duties.

Related Links

• Public Service Act
• James Fulford Biography
• Gary Brennan Biography

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Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca