Associate Deputy Minister Christine McDowell

Christine McDowell was appointed Associate Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada effective 27 May 2024. She brings extensive leadership experience in front-line operations, program and service delivery, client service experience, partnership development and organizational strategy.

Christine was the Senior Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) of the Citizen Service Branch (CSB) at Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) since May 2023. She has held various senior leadership positions at ESDC since 2007, in corporate and operational areas, at both the national and regional level.

Christine has led significant transformation initiatives during her leadership career including the current Passport Modernization Initiative and has worked across government departments to implement significant services and benefits for clients including the Ukraine benefits, the Passport program and the recently launched Canadian Dental Program Benefit.

As Champion for the Building Black Leaders program as well as a former Atlantic Regional Mental Health and Wellness Co-Champion, Christine has a passion for mental health, as well as for diversity and inclusion.

Christine understands the work required to meet the diverse needs of Canadians and is dedicated to excellence in the client service experience as they engage with government services. She will draw on her leadership background and experience to help contribute to the well-being of Veterans and their families.