CUPE Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

CUPE has 10 executives leading key functions including labor advocacy, public service representation, and organizational strategy.

Committed to protecting the rights of workers across Canada, CUPE advances the delivery of essential public services through robust collective bargaining and dedicated member support systems.

Leadership Roles at CUPE

  • President - Kelly Moist
  • President - Tom Graham
  • President - Daniel Cavanagh
  • President - Dawn Armstrong
  • President - Bev Strachan
  • President - Alia Hussain
  • President - Eddie Mariconda
  • President - Helen Hughes
  • President Cupe Local - Tanya Paterson
  • Local 1867 President - Steve Joy
  • Kelly Moist - President

    Kelly Moist, the President at CUPE, directs the strategic labor advocacy initiatives for the organization. Moist manages the internal governance frameworks that support public service workers across the country. By coordinating with regional representatives, the President ensures that collective bargaining goals align with the broader mission of protecting essential service delivery. Kelly Moist maintains a focus on legislative engagement to influence policy outcomes that benefit the membership base. This leadership role involves constant communication with the board to refine organizational priorities and address emerging workplace challenges. Through the implementation of comprehensive advocacy programs, the President strengthens the influence of the union within the public sector. Moist drives the development of long-term strategies that secure fair working conditions and promote the value of public services in the national economy, ultimately fostering a resilient and empowered workforce.

    Tom Graham - President

    Tom Graham, the President at CUPE, oversees the operational expansion of member services within the public sector. Graham architects the framework for regional outreach programs that connect the organization with diverse worker groups. By analyzing labor market trends, the President identifies opportunities to enhance the quality of representation for those delivering critical public services. Tom Graham facilitates high-level negotiations that directly impact the financial and professional stability of the membership. This role requires constant collaboration with other executive leaders to synchronize advocacy efforts across various provinces. Through the execution of targeted communication strategies, the President builds public awareness regarding the importance of unionized labor. Graham drives the operational efficiency of the organization by streamlining internal processes and ensuring that resources reach the front lines of service delivery, thereby securing sustainable growth for the entire membership.
    Tom Graham

    Daniel Cavanagh - President

    Daniel Cavanagh, the President at CUPE, manages the fiscal and administrative integrity of the organization. Cavanagh directs the allocation of resources to support legal and educational initiatives for public service workers. By monitoring the effectiveness of current advocacy campaigns, the President ensures that the union maintains a strong presence in the national labor landscape. Daniel Cavanagh coordinates with the board to establish long-term financial goals that support the ongoing mission of the organization. This leadership position involves overseeing the implementation of training programs that equip members with the tools necessary for workplace success. Through the strategic management of organizational assets, the President fosters an environment of stability and growth. Cavanagh drives the development of policies that protect the rights of workers, ensuring that the union remains a powerful force in the public sector while consistently delivering value to the membership.
    Daniel Cavanagh

    Dawn Armstrong - President

    Dawn Armstrong, the President at CUPE, leads the development of community-based advocacy programs that highlight the essential nature of public services. Armstrong architects partnerships with external stakeholders to amplify the voice of the membership in public discourse. By focusing on the intersection of labor rights and social policy, the President ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of public sector reform. Dawn Armstrong oversees the execution of campaigns designed to improve workplace safety and professional standards for all members. This role requires constant interaction with regional leaders to ensure that local concerns receive national attention. Through the implementation of inclusive engagement strategies, the President strengthens the bond between the union and the public it serves. Armstrong drives the strategic direction of the organization by championing initiatives that promote equity and fairness, ultimately securing a stronger future for the entire workforce.

    Bev Strachan - President

    Bev Strachan, the President at CUPE, directs the internal communications and member engagement strategies for the organization. Strachan architects the messaging frameworks that define the public image of the union and its commitment to service workers. By managing the flow of information between the leadership and the membership, the President ensures transparency and alignment with organizational goals. Bev Strachan oversees the development of digital platforms that facilitate easier access to union resources and support services. This leadership role involves working closely with other executives to craft narratives that emphasize the critical role of public services in society. Through the execution of targeted outreach, the President fosters a culture of active participation among the membership. Strachan drives the strategic growth of the organization by ensuring that every member feels represented and informed, thereby maintaining the collective strength of the union in a competitive labor market.

    Alia Hussain - President

    Alia Hussain, the President at CUPE, manages the strategic planning for organizational development and long-term sustainability. Hussain architects the initiatives that prepare the union for future challenges in the public service sector. By evaluating the impact of current labor laws, the President identifies areas where the organization can exert greater influence to protect worker interests. Alia Hussain coordinates with the board to ensure that all strategic decisions support the core mission of the union. This role involves overseeing the implementation of research projects that provide data-driven insights into the needs of the membership. Through the execution of comprehensive planning sessions, the President aligns the efforts of the entire organization toward common objectives. Hussain drives the modernization of internal systems to improve efficiency and responsiveness, ensuring that the union remains a relevant and effective advocate for public service workers across the country.

    Eddie Mariconda - President

    Eddie Mariconda, the President at CUPE, directs the labor relations and dispute resolution functions for the organization. Mariconda architects the strategies used to navigate complex negotiations with employers in the public sector. By providing guidance to local chapters, the President ensures that collective agreements reflect the needs and priorities of the membership. Eddie Mariconda oversees the legal and mediation processes that protect the rights of workers during workplace conflicts. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with legal teams to ensure compliance with labor regulations and to secure favorable outcomes for the union. Through the execution of proactive conflict management, the President minimizes disruptions to public services while maximizing the benefits for members. Mariconda drives the development of negotiation skills within the organization, ensuring that the union maintains a strong and effective bargaining position in every sector it represents.

    Helen Hughes - President

    Helen Hughes, the President at CUPE, oversees the educational and professional development programs for the membership. Hughes architects the curriculum and training modules that empower workers to excel in their respective public service roles. By identifying skill gaps within the workforce, the President ensures that the organization provides relevant and high-quality training opportunities. Helen Hughes manages the partnerships with educational institutions to facilitate certification and career advancement for members. This role involves working with the board to allocate funding for professional development initiatives that enhance the overall value of the union. Through the execution of comprehensive learning strategies, the President fosters a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Hughes drives the strategic growth of the organization by equipping members with the expertise needed to navigate the evolving demands of the public sector, thereby securing long-term professional success for the entire membership.
    Helen Hughes

    Tanya Paterson - President Cupe Local

    Tanya Paterson, the President Cupe Local at CUPE, directs the grassroots organizing efforts within the local chapter. Paterson architects the engagement strategies that mobilize members to participate in union activities and advocacy campaigns. By fostering strong relationships with local workers, the President ensures that the concerns of the membership are heard and addressed at the national level. Tanya Paterson oversees the daily operations of the local office, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to support the needs of the community. This leadership role involves coordinating with other local presidents to share best practices and align efforts with the broader organizational mission. Through the execution of targeted outreach, the President builds a sense of solidarity and purpose among the local membership. Paterson drives the growth of the local chapter by championing initiatives that improve working conditions and promote the vital role of public services in the local economy.
    Tanya Paterson

    Steve Joy - Local 1867 President

    Steve Joy, the Local 1867 President at CUPE, manages the specific labor interests and operational requirements of the local membership. Joy architects the local bargaining strategies that address the unique challenges faced by workers in this specific sector. By maintaining a direct line of communication with the membership, the President ensures that the union remains responsive to the immediate needs of the workforce. Steve Joy oversees the implementation of local advocacy programs that highlight the contributions of public service workers to the community. This leadership role involves collaborating with regional representatives to ensure that local efforts are supported by the national organization. Through the execution of effective representation, the President secures better working conditions and professional support for all members of the local chapter. Joy drives the strategic development of the local unit by fostering a culture of unity and active participation, ultimately strengthening the collective voice of the workers.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CUPE Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CUPE?
    CUPE is led by Kelly Moist (President), along with executives such as Tom Graham (President) and Daniel Cavanagh (President).
    Who is part of CUPE’s executive team?
    The executive team of CUPE includes leaders such as Kelly Moist (President), Tom Graham (President), Daniel Cavanagh (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CUPE have?
    CUPE has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CUPE’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CUPE includes roles such as President, President, President, President, President.