Premier Akeeagok announces executive-level appointments

Iqaluit, Nunavut (October 27, 2023) – Premier P.J. Akeeagok today announced the appointment of a new Deputy Minister for the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs (EIA), effective immediately.

Anna Fowler steps into the position following a year as EIA’s Associate Deputy Minister and Deputy Secretary to Cabinet. She previously held positions within the department as Director of Intergovernmental Relations, Executive Director of Strategic Management, and Assistant Deputy Minister.

“I congratulate Ms. Fowler on her new appointment. Her exceptional skills and knowledge are an asset to the Government of Nunavut as we work to fulfil our Katujjiluta mandate,” said Premier P.J. Akeeagok.

“The goal in creating the positions of Associate Deputy Minister was to encourage and increase the representation of Nunavut Inuit in the highest levels of our public service. Ms. Fowler showed exemplary leadership skills as EIA’s Associate Deputy Minister and is now prepared to embrace the top public-service role in the department.”

As an Inuk born and raised in Iqaluit, Ms. Fowler has dedicated her professional life to working with and for Inuit. Her professional history also includes working for Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami as Director of Health and Social Development and the Government of Canada as a Senior Policy Advisor.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to Jimi Onalik, who has worked tirelessly as Deputy Minister of EIA for the past 18 months. I wish him the very best in his future endeavours,” said Premier Akeeagok.

Premier Akeeagok also announced the appointment of Jonathan Ellsworth as Deputy Minister of Family Services, a position Mr. Ellsworth has filled in an acting capacity since late April. He comes from a social justice background, spending the bulk of his career at Legal Services Board of Nunavut and most recently as Assistant Deputy Minister for the Department of Justice.

“Congratulations to Mr. Ellsworth. The Government of Nunavut appreciates his continued service and first-rate leadership,” said Premier Akeeagok.