2024 Strategic Speakers

Gitane is a public policy leader with executive experience at the provincial, national, and international levels and expertise in the areas of energy and environment, intergovernmental relations, and Canada-U.S. relations. She is the Founder and Principal of the consulting firm, GDStrategic. As CEO of the Canada Energy Regulator from 2020 to 2023, Gitane ensured the safe and efficient delivery of energy to Canada and the world, while also protecting the environment, advancing Reconciliation, and providing relevant and timely energy information and analysis. As Alberta’s Deputy Minister for International and Intergovernmental Relations, Gitane directly served four Premiers and advocated for Alberta’s interests domestically and internationally. Gitane is a seasoned diplomat and a specialist in Canada-U.S. relations, serving as Alberta’s Senior Representative in Washington, DC, and Canada’s Consul General in Chicago. She promoted trade, investment, and energy infrastructure and was also involved in the negotiations of several trade and environmental agreements. Gitane is a Special Advisor at Blue Rock Law, a Global Fellow with the Canada Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, and a Board Member with the Public Policy Forum. Gitane is passionate about public policy, gender equality, and dark chocolate. When not working, she can be found spending time with her family outside, reading, or escaping to the Rocky Mountains.