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Nancy Gardiner was appointed Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada effective March 23, 2026.
Prior to joining Veterans Affairs, Ms. Gardiner was President (Deputy Minister) of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario since September 1, 2021 where she worked with communities, businesses, not-for-profit organizations and other orders of government in southern Ontario to strengthen the region's capacity for innovation, economic development and growth.
Nancy served as Assistant Deputy Minister of Programs, Policy and Operations at Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE), where she advanced gender equality through significant investments in key programs, policies and initiatives. She has also held several senior leadership positions in the public service including roles at Service Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Her extensive experience in delivering complex social and economic programs to individuals and organizations is a valuable asset for the Department and its mandate. Drawing on her background in program and service delivery, Nancy has a strong commitment to operational excellence and engagement with stakeholders. With her extensive experience in serving Canadians, Nancy is bringing a strong focus on service, results, and meaningful impact for the well-being of Veterans and their families.
Born and raised in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Nancy earned her Master's Degree in Business Administration from St. Mary's University in Halifax and a Bachelor of Science with a major in Biology from Acadia University, Wolfville.