Parks Canada Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Parks Canada has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to preservation, Parks Canada manages one of the world's most extensive systems of protected natural and cultural heritage areas, safeguarding Canada's natural and cultural legacy for future generations.

Leadership Roles at Parks Canada

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada) - Claren Motokado
  • National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate - Kirsten Sage
  • A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate - Emilie Goulet
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Andrew Francis
  • Chief of Staff - Tammy Paul
  • Chief Information Officer - Richard Barrette
  • Claren Motokado - Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada)

    Claren Motokado, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada) at Parks Canada, supports the financial strategy and fiscal management of the agency. Motokado assists in overseeing budgetary allocations, financial reporting, and resource management for Parks Canada's extensive operations. This role is crucial for ensuring the sustainable funding of conservation efforts and visitor services across numerous national parks and historic sites. Claren Motokado contributes to the financial planning that underpins the preservation of Canada's natural and cultural heritage. The Deputy CFO's work involves rigorous financial analysis and compliance with government fiscal regulations. By collaborating with the Chief Financial Officer, Motokado ensures financial accountability and supports the strategic objectives of Parks Canada. This position is integral to maintaining the agency's financial health and operational capacity.

    Kirsten Sage - National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate

    Kirsten Sage, the National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate at Parks Canada, directs financial operations and procurement strategies. Sage oversees the financial integrity of national contracting services, ensuring compliance and efficiency in all procurement activities. This leadership function is critical for managing the significant financial resources allocated to Parks Canada's conservation and operational projects. Kirsten Sage's expertise guides the financial direction of directorate-level initiatives, supporting the agency's mandate to protect heritage sites. The role involves strategic financial planning, risk management, and optimizing contract performance. By ensuring robust financial oversight, Sage contributes directly to the successful execution of Parks Canada's programs across the country. This position is fundamental to the agency's fiscal responsibility and operational effectiveness.

    Emilie Goulet - A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate

    Emilie Goulet, the A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate at Parks Canada, provides critical advisory support for financial operations and contracting. Goulet contributes to the strategic oversight of national contracting services, ensuring adherence to financial regulations and best practices. This role is essential for the effective management of resources dedicated to preserving Canada's natural and cultural heritage. Emilie Goulet's contributions support the financial directorate in optimizing procurement processes and managing expenditures. The advisor's work involves detailed financial analysis and supporting the implementation of fiscal policies. By collaborating within the Chief Financial Officer Directorate, Goulet enhances the agency's financial stewardship and operational capabilities. This function is key to maintaining the integrity of Parks Canada's financial management systems.

    Andrew Francis - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Andrew Francis, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Parks Canada, directs the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal management of the agency. Francis oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting, ensuring the sound financial health of Parks Canada. This executive leadership role is paramount to supporting the organization's mission of preserving and presenting Canada's natural and cultural heritage. Andrew Francis guides the financial stewardship necessary for the effective operation of national parks and historic sites. The CFO's responsibilities include managing significant financial resources, mitigating fiscal risks, and ensuring compliance with government financial policies. By providing strategic financial direction, Francis enables Parks Canada to achieve its conservation and visitor experience objectives across the nation. This position is central to the agency's accountability and long-term sustainability.
    Andrew Francis

    Tammy Paul - Chief of Staff

    Tammy Paul, the Chief of Staff at Parks Canada, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the organization. This leadership position involves coordinating executive priorities and ensuring seamless communication between departments. Paul's oversight extends to managing key projects that support Parks Canada's mandate of preserving natural and cultural heritage. By optimizing internal processes, Tammy Paul enhances the efficiency of the agency's operations. The role requires a deep understanding of government protocols and the specific needs of heritage management. Paul's strategic input guides the executive team in navigating complex policy landscapes and driving forward the agency's long-term objectives. This function is critical for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of Parks Canada's extensive network of protected areas.

    Richard Barrette - Chief Information Officer

    Richard Barrette, the Chief Information Officer at Parks Canada, architects the agency's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Barrette oversees the implementation of innovative IT solutions that support Parks Canada's mission of managing protected heritage areas. This includes ensuring the security and accessibility of vast digital archives and operational data. Richard Barrette drives the digital transformation efforts, enhancing visitor experiences through technology and improving internal operational efficiencies. The CIO's responsibilities encompass managing all aspects of information technology, from network infrastructure to cybersecurity protocols. By leveraging advanced technologies, Barrette ensures that Parks Canada can effectively monitor, manage, and protect its diverse natural and cultural sites across Canada. This leadership role is vital for modernizing operations and safeguarding digital assets.
    Richard Barrette

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Parks Canada Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Parks Canada?
    Parks Canada is led by Claren Motokado (Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada)), along with executives such as Kirsten Sage (National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate) and Emilie Goulet (A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate).
    Who is part of Parks Canada’s executive team?
    The executive team of Parks Canada includes leaders such as Claren Motokado (Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada)), Kirsten Sage (National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate), Emilie Goulet (A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Parks Canada have?
    Parks Canada has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Parks Canada’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Parks Canada includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Parks (Canada), National Contracting Services Senior Advisor & Chief Financial Officer, Directorate, A and Advisor, National Contracting Services, Chief Financial Officer Directorate, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff.