Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a substantial shakeup in the senior ranks of the public service, marking his second such reorganization in less than three months. The changes, effective in the coming weeks, impact leadership in at least 16 government organizations, including the foreign affairs and immigration departments.
The sweeping changes include Glenn Purves, previously Global Head of Macro Research at BlackRock Investment Institute, becoming Deputy Minister of International Trade. David Morrison, formerly Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, will now serve as Senior Diplomatic and International Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister and act as Personal Representative for the G7 and G20 Summits. Arun Thangaraj, previously Deputy Minister of Transport, is set to take over as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Kaili Levesque will become Associate Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and President of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
These changes come as the federal public service faces increased pressure to deliver on key government priorities, including trade negotiations, defense procurement, and housing, amidst looming job cuts. The government is aiming to trim the public service through attrition, early retirements, and job cuts. CUPE has expressed concerns that the cuts of 7.5% in 2026, 10% in 2027, and 15% in 2028, could slash up to $19 billion in program funding.
The Prime Minister has stated that these leadership changes will support the effective delivery of priorities for Canadians and position the government to advance Canada's interests on the global stage.
