CALGARY – On Monday, April 15, the Canada West Foundation will welcome Len Coad as Director of the new Centre for Natural Resources Policy. Coad joins the Foundation from his previous role as Director of Energy, Environment and Technology Policy at the Conference Board of Canada. His extensive experience in policy development and expertise in climate change, sustainable development and regulation will be an asset to the Foundation.
“We are delighted to bring Len on board,” states President & CEO, Dylan Jones. “The world is hungry for the region’s food, energy and materials, but we need to rebuild the social contract that enables our resource economy to operate. I am confident that under Len’s leadership we will provide policymakers and the public with valuable insight and bold recommendations that will ensure that natural resource policy is the best it can be.”
The Centre for Natural Resources Policy will champion the responsible development of the West’s natural resources by recommending ways to rebuild pride in the resource economy, enhance environmental performance, improve relations with Aboriginal stakeholders and increase our role as resource service providers and innovators in the global economy.
“I am excited to be joining the Canada West Foundation as it launches its new Centre for Natural Resources Policy,” said Mr. Coad. “The opportunities in the resource sector are incredible but so are the policy challenges that need to be overcome to ensure western Canada is able to seize those opportunities.”
Len has been with the Conference Board of Canada since 2006. In addition to his role managing a major research program, he was also responsible for business development for their western office. His distinguished career also includes roles in research, government and the energy industry. He holds an honours degree in economics and a master’s degree in operations research.
The Centre for Natural Resources Policy is the first of three research centres being created by Canada West Foundation. These centres—which will also address human capital and trade and investment policy—represent the most important issues affecting western Canada’s long-term prosperity and will be funded through the Foundation’s Invest in the Westcampaign.
Canada West Foundation is the only evidence-based think tank with an exclusive focus on the policies that shape the West’s quality of life. Through our research and commentary, we provide objective, practical solutions governments need. For over 40 years, we have been a passionate advocate for western Canada. Visit us at www.cwf.ca.