Public Safety Canada Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to national security, Public Safety Canada safeguards against cyber threats, child trafficking, and community hazards, ensuring comprehensive public safety across Canada.

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

    John McKinley, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Public Safety Canada, directs fiscal operations and financial strategy to support national security objectives. McKinley oversees budget allocation, financial planning, and resource management across all departmental functions, including cyber security and crime prevention initiatives. This leadership role ensures fiscal accountability and optimizes financial performance to maximize the impact of public safety investments. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, John McKinley enhances the agency's operational efficiency. The position requires extensive expertise in public sector finance and a commitment to prudent fiscal management. McKinley's guidance is crucial for sustaining the financial integrity and operational capacity of Public Safety Canada.

    Charlie Tsao - Chief of Staff

    Charlie Tsao, the Chief of Staff at Public Safety Canada, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across critical security domains. Overseeing departmental coordination, Tsao ensures seamless execution of policies related to national security, cyber defense, and crime prevention. This leadership position involves managing key stakeholder communications and facilitating the efficient flow of information between executive leadership and operational teams. By optimizing internal processes, Charlie Tsao drives departmental effectiveness in addressing complex public safety challenges. The role demands a keen understanding of governmental operations and a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring that Public Safety Canada maintains its robust security posture. Tsao's oversight extends to resource allocation and strategic planning, directly supporting the agency's mission to protect Canadian citizens and infrastructure from diverse threats.

    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 engagement. Dussault manages critical intergovernmental relations and ensures the effective implementation of departmental mandates concerning immigration and child trafficking prevention. This executive function involves direct oversight of policy development and execution, aligning departmental efforts with national security objectives. By streamlining communication channels and fostering collaboration, Josée Dussault enhances the agency's capacity to respond to evolving threats. The role requires meticulous attention to detail and a comprehensive grasp of legislative frameworks governing public safety. Dussault's leadership ensures that Public Safety Canada operates with maximum efficiency and impact in safeguarding communities and upholding national security standards.

    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, provides critical support and strategic direction for emergency management operations. Colangelo manages the coordination of responses to community hazards and national crises, ensuring preparedness and effective mitigation strategies. This pivotal role involves interfacing directly with senior advisors and deputy ministers, facilitating decision-making processes and operational readiness. By driving cross-functional collaboration, Amanda Colangelo strengthens Public Safety Canada's ability to manage large-scale emergencies. The position demands exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of disaster response protocols. Colangelo's contributions are essential for maintaining public safety and resilience in the face of unforeseen events.

    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, leads the strategic development and implementation of information technology infrastructure. Brach oversees the management of cyber security systems, data protection protocols, and digital transformation initiatives critical to national security and crime prevention. This executive function ensures that Public Safety Canada maintains a secure and advanced technological framework to counter evolving threats. By driving innovation in IT solutions, Dave Brach enhances the agency's operational capabilities and data integrity. The role demands deep technical knowledge and a forward-thinking approach to cybersecurity. Brach's leadership is instrumental in safeguarding sensitive information and supporting the agency's mission through robust technological support.

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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, Chief of Staff & To The Senior Advisor & Assistant & Emergency Management Deputy Minister, Director General, Office of the Chief Information Officer.