Assistant Deputy Minister (Aquaculture)

Job Details

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking an Assistant Deputy Minister to lead the Aquaculture Branch of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. This role plays a critical role in shaping the future of one of the province’s key economic sectors. Reporting to the Deputy Minister, the Assistant Deputy Minister of Aquaculture oversees duties and functions in the Branch to advance sustainable development and growth in Newfoundland and Labrador’s aquaculture sector. The position demonstrates executive leadership in the following areas:

• Setting and executing a clear strategic vision for sustainable aquaculture growth aligned with provincial priorities, federal frameworks and ocean stewardship;
• Ensuring effective oversight of licensing, compliance and environmental monitoring, balancing industry development with public accountability;
• Coordinating with federal departments and agencies (e.g. Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Transport Canada) and other provinces to align policy, manage shared jurisdictions, and advance Newfoundland and Labrador’s interests;
• Advancing aquaculture as a pillar of rural and regional economic development by supporting innovation, value-added activities, workforce development and competitiveness;
• Driving industry global competitiveness in response to trade challenges;
• Providing decisive leadership during incidents such as fish health events, environmental concerns, operational failures, or public controversies, ensuring transparent communication and timely action;
• Complying with provincial and federal legislation and enforcement of aquaculture regulations and standards;
• Building and maintaining respectful, constructive relationships with Indigenous governments and organizations, industry operators, coastal communities, non-government organizations and the public;
• Advising the Minister and other executive on emerging issues, opportunities and risks affecting the aquaculture industry; and
• Overseeing branch operations, including fiscal management, human resources and performance accountability.

Requirements

Qualifications for this position would normally be acquired through a university degree in a related field, combined with senior management experience in a complex organization, preferably in the public sector or resource-based industries. Demonstrated success in policy development, strategic planning, relationship building and operational oversight is required. A combination of equivalent education and experience may be considered.

Assessment Criteria

The Assistant Deputy Minister of Aquaculture is an accomplished leader and strategic thinker with demonstrated expertise in advancing sustainable growth within a complex, highly regulated resource sector. The incumbent brings a proven ability to drive innovation, modernization and environmental stewardship across operations. Knowledge of aquaculture policy, programming and regulatory frameworks would be considered an asset. Success in this role requires strong leadership capacity, sound fiscal, human resource and performance management skills and the ability to effectively manage competing priorities in a dynamic economic and regulatory environment. The Assistant Deputy Minister demonstrates exceptional judgment and communication skills, provides trusted advice to senior officials on emerging risks and opportunities and has a proven track record of building and sustaining productive relationships with stakeholders, Indigenous governments, organizations and partners to enhance sector competitiveness, compliance and long-term sustainability.

Information for Applicants

Remuneration will be in accordance with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Executive Compensation Plan.

Contact Caroline Orsborn, Assistant Deputy Clerk, Cabinet Secretariat, Executive Council

Phone: 709-729-1118 | Email: carolineorsborn@gov.nl.ca

Contact Information

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Closing Date: May 25, 2026

https://www.hiring.gov.nl.ca/Applications/Submit/32575/FA.26.27.0190