Alberta Innovates shuffles leadership, offers new direction

CALGARY – Alberta Innovates, which has contributed to 1,300 projects in a portfolio valued at $1.3 billion, is “embarking on a significant leadership transition,” the provincial innovation engine announced. Effective immediately, chief executive officer Laura Kilcrease (pictured) is no longer with Alberta Innovates, as the organization looks toward a “bold new strategic direction,” according to chairman Tony Williams.

“I want to thank Laura for her leadership over the past seven years,” Williams stated. “Her hard work and commitment to Alberta Innovates and to growing our province’s research and innovation sector is appreciated.”

A new interim CEO will be appointed soon, said the chairman, with marketing and communications vice president Lyn Brown temporarily acting the role.

Alberta Innovates also added five new appointments to its board of directors: Brad Severin; Richard Wong; Lethbridge University President Emeritus Michael Mahon; Robert Fernandez of Mansbach Advisory Group; and vice-chair Dr. Jodi Abbott, who functions as CEO of the University Hospital Foundation.

“With five recent, new appointments to the Board of Directors, the governance of Alberta Innovates is charting a new course,” said Williams. “One that we look forward to navigating with our dedicated and competent employees across the province, and with our many partners and stakeholders in research and innovation.”

According to Williams, change in leadership is often a natural component of an organization’s evolution.

“Additional perspectives, energy, and skillsets will be integral to developing and implementing our next strategic plan on which work will begin immediately,” he said.

Recent investments from Alberta Innovates include advancing healthcare through AI, boosting the gaming sector, and a new acceleration program called IDEATE.

Source: Calgary.tech