ACOA Executive and Leadership Team

Sophie Trainor, the A and Administrative Coordinator, President's Office at ACOA, manages critical administrative functions supporting the President's office and executive operations. Trainor's role ensures the smooth and efficient functioning of daily activities, facilitating the President's strategic priorities for economic growth in Atlantic Canada. This position involves coordinating schedules, managing correspondence, and providing essential administrative support to high-level decision-making processes. By maintaining organized and responsive administrative systems, Sophie Trainor directly contributes to the effectiveness of the President's leadership. The Administrative Coordinator's responsibilities are vital for ensuring that executive communications and operational workflows are managed with precision and efficiency.

Laura Langley, the President at ACOA, directs the agency's strategic vision and operational execution to foster economic growth throughout Atlantic Canada. Langley's leadership guides the organization's efforts in creating opportunities, driving innovation, and supporting regional development initiatives. This paramount role involves overseeing all facets of ACOA's operations, ensuring alignment with federal government objectives and regional economic imperatives. By championing key programs and fostering collaborative partnerships, Laura Langley enhances the agency's impact and reach. The President's focus is on maximizing ACOA's contribution to a vibrant and prosperous Atlantic Canadian economy, setting the direction for policy, programs, and stakeholder engagement.

Marc Gagnon, the Director General, Chief Information Officer Directorate at ACOA, directs the agency's comprehensive information technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of the CIO Directorate, Gagnon ensures the secure and efficient operation of ACOA's digital systems, supporting economic development initiatives across Atlantic Canada. This leadership role involves architecting scalable technology solutions that enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness for the agency. By managing the IT portfolio, Marc Gagnon drives innovation in digital transformation, aligning technology investments with the core mission of creating economic opportunities. The Director General's focus extends to cybersecurity, data management, and the implementation of advanced technological tools to support regional growth objectives.

Richard Josette, the Client Support Specialist & Chief Information Officer, Amp, Technology, Directorate at ACOA, spearheads client-facing technology solutions and support services. Josette's dual role ensures that both internal technology operations and external client support systems are optimized for effectiveness and user satisfaction. This leadership position involves managing the technology directorate's functions, focusing on delivering accessible and responsive client assistance. By integrating client feedback into technology development, Richard Josette enhances the user experience for businesses seeking economic growth opportunities in Atlantic Canada. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include overseeing technology implementation, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring seamless integration of digital platforms to support ACOA's mandate.

Jason Ferguson, the Chief of Staff To the Vice President and Policy, Programs and Communications at ACOA, provides strategic support and operational oversight for key policy, program, and communication functions. Ferguson's role is critical in aligning departmental activities with the Vice President's vision and the agency's overarching economic development goals for Atlantic Canada. This executive position involves coordinating cross-functional initiatives, managing stakeholder relations, and ensuring the effective execution of communication strategies. By facilitating seamless collaboration between policy development, program implementation, and public outreach, Jason Ferguson drives the efficient delivery of ACOA's services. The Chief of Staff's focus includes enhancing organizational efficiency and ensuring that all communications accurately reflect the agency's mission and impact.