Gitane is a public policy leader with executive experience at the provincial, national, and international levels and expertise in the areas of energy and environment, intergovernmental relations, and Canada-U.S. relations.

As CEO of the Canada Energy Regulator from 2020 to 2023, Gitane ensured the safe and efficient delivery of energy to Canada and the world, while also protecting the environment, advancing Reconciliation, and providing relevant and timely energy information and analysis. As Alberta’s Deputy Minister for International and Intergovernmental Relations, Gitane directly served four Premiers and advocated for Alberta’s interests domestically and internationally.

Gitane is a seasoned diplomat and a specialist in Canada-U.S. relations, having served as Alberta’s Senior Representative in Washington, DC during the first Trump Administration and as Canada’s Consul General in Chicago, among other roles. She was also involved in the negotiation of several trade and environment agreements, including the Canada United States Mexico Agreement, the Canada Free Trade Agreement and the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

Gitane is the Executive Director of the Peter Lougheed School for Politics and Democracy at the University of Alberta, the Founder & President of GDStrategic Inc, a member of the Advisory Board for the New North America Initiative at the University of Calgary, a Director with NB Power and a Board Member with the Public Policy Forum.

Gitane is passionate about public policy, gender equality, and dark chocolate. When not working, she can be found spending time outside, reading, or escaping to the Rocky Mountains.