Prime Minister Mark Carney has initiated a significant restructuring of the federal public service, both by creating new roles and reshuffling existing leadership positions. This move, following a similar shuffle in December, signals a continued effort to exert influence over the machinery of government and deliver results for Canadians.
Key Appointments and Shifts
Among the most notable changes, Glenn Purves, formerly an economist at the BlackRock Investment Institute after leaving the public sector in January 2025, is returning to government as Deputy Minister of International Trade. Purves previously held senior roles within Finance Canada from 2011 to 2018, and served as assistant deputy minister of economic development starting in 2021.
David Morrison, previously the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, will now serve as Carney’s senior diplomatic and international affairs advisor, operating out of the Privy Council Office. Arun Thangaraj, the former Deputy Minister of Transport, will assume Morrison’s previous role at Global Affairs Canada. Morrison will as well represent the Prime Minister in negotiations leading up to G7 and G20 summits.
Cynthia Termorshuizen, who previously handled G7 and G20 files, is moving to International Development as Deputy Minister. Rob Stewart, currently Deputy Minister of International Trade, will lead the newly formed Financial Crimes Agency, established to combat money laundering and organized crime.
Other significant changes include Dominic Rochon becoming the Privy Council Office’s Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet focused on national security and intelligence, and Nathalie Drouin’s appointment as Canada’s new ambassador to France.
Expanded Responsibilities for Fentanyl Czar
Kevin Brosseau, currently serving as Canada’s fentanyl czar since February 2025, will also take on the roles of Senior Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence and Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard.
Additional appointments include Michael Vandergrift as Deputy Minister of Transport, Ted Gallivan as Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Harpreet S. Kochhar as President of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Several other deputy ministers have also been reassigned to new roles within various departments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted these changes in the public service?
Prime Minister Mark Carney has stated these changes are intended to strengthen the delivery of government priorities and position Canada to respond to a changing global landscape.
Who is taking on the role of Deputy Minister of International Trade?
Glenn Purves, who previously worked at the BlackRock Investment Institute, is returning to the government as Deputy Minister of International Trade.
What is the purpose of the new Financial Crimes Agency?
The Financial Crimes Agency will investigate and prosecute complex cases of money laundering, organized crime, and financial scams, with the goal of recovering illegal proceeds.
As these changes take effect, it remains to be seen how these new configurations will impact the delivery of government services and Canada’s approach to key policy areas.
