Public Safety Canada Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Public Safety Canada has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, information technology, and emergency management.

Driven by a commitment to national security, Public Safety Canada provides comprehensive security for cyber threats, immigration, crime, child trafficking, and community hazards, safeguarding the nation.

Leadership Roles at Public Safety Canada

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - John McKinley
  • Chief of Staff - Charlie Tsao
  • Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef - Josée Dussault
  • Director General, Office of the Chief Information Officer - Dave Brach
  • Chief of Staff & To The Senior Advisor & Assistant & Emergency Management Deputy Minister - Amanda Colangelo
  • John McKinley - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    John McKinley, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Public Safety Canada, oversees critical financial planning and resource allocation. McKinley manages the fiscal integrity of the department, ensuring robust financial controls and compliance with government regulations. This leadership position involves developing and executing financial strategies that support Public Safety Canada's broad mandate, encompassing cyber security, immigration, and crime prevention. By optimizing budget management, John McKinley ensures that resources are effectively deployed to address national security and community hazard mitigation efforts. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include financial reporting, risk assessment, and driving fiscal efficiency across all operational units. McKinley's financial acumen is essential for sustaining the department's capacity to respond to evolving threats.

    Charlie Tsao - Chief of Staff

    Charlie Tsao, the Chief of Staff at Public Safety Canada, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key departments. Tsao manages the flow of information and resources, ensuring executive priorities translate into actionable plans. This role involves coordinating interdepartmental efforts to address complex security challenges, including cyber threats and national security concerns. By optimizing internal processes, Charlie Tsao enhances the efficiency of Public Safety Canada's response mechanisms. The Chief of Staff's oversight extends to critical projects, ensuring timely execution and adherence to departmental objectives. This leadership position is pivotal in maintaining the organization's operational readiness and strategic focus on safeguarding Canada.

    Josée Dussault - Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef

    Josée Dussault, the Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef at Public Safety Canada, orchestrates high-level strategic operations and cabinet-level communications. Dussault manages the coordination of critical policy development and implementation, particularly concerning national security and emergency management frameworks. This executive ensures seamless integration of departmental directives with broader government objectives. Overseeing the cabinet liaison function, Josée Dussault facilitates effective communication and decision-making processes. The role demands meticulous attention to detail in managing sensitive information and stakeholder relations. By driving operational excellence, Dussault supports Public Safety Canada's mission to protect citizens from diverse threats, including crime and child trafficking.

    Dave Brach - Director General, Office of the Chief Information Officer

    Dave Brach, the Director General, Office of the Chief Information Officer at Public Safety Canada, directs the strategic implementation of information technology solutions. Brach oversees the development and maintenance of robust IT infrastructure, crucial for safeguarding national security and managing cyber threats. This role involves ensuring technological advancements align with Public Safety Canada's mission to combat crime, child trafficking, and other hazards. By driving innovation in digital security, Dave Brach enhances the department's operational capabilities and data protection measures. The Director General's purview includes managing IT projects, cybersecurity protocols, and ensuring system resilience. Brach's leadership is vital for maintaining a secure and efficient technological backbone that supports all departmental functions.

    Amanda Colangelo - Chief of Staff & To The Senior Advisor & Assistant & Emergency Management Deputy Minister

    Amanda Colangelo, the Chief of Staff & To The Senior Advisor & Assistant & Emergency Management Deputy Minister at Public Safety Canada, manages critical operational and advisory functions. Colangelo ensures seamless coordination between the Deputy Minister's office and various emergency management divisions. This executive role involves strategic planning and execution of initiatives aimed at enhancing national resilience against diverse hazards. By facilitating communication and resource deployment, Amanda Colangelo supports effective responses to crises and ongoing security challenges. The position demands a comprehensive understanding of emergency protocols and intergovernmental collaboration. Colangelo's leadership is instrumental in strengthening Public Safety Canada's capacity to protect communities and national interests.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Public Safety Canada Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Public Safety Canada?
    Public Safety Canada is led by John McKinley (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Charlie Tsao (Chief of Staff) and Josée Dussault (Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef).
    Who is part of Public Safety Canada’s executive team?
    The executive team of Public Safety Canada includes leaders such as John McKinley (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Charlie Tsao (Chief of Staff), Josée Dussault (Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Public Safety Canada have?
    Public Safety Canada has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Public Safety Canada’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Public Safety Canada includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff & DE Cabinet Chef, Director General, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff & To The Senior Advisor & Assistant & Emergency Management Deputy Minister.