Charles DeLand welcomed as Vice President, Research
June 11, 2025 – The Canada West Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Charles DeLand as our new Vice President, Research, effective June 23, 2025.
Charles brings over 25 years of leadership in policy and economic analysis, with a distinguished track record spanning the private sector, government, industry associations and think tanks. His career includes senior roles with Shell Canada, Husky Energy, the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, the Government of Alberta, and most recently with the C.D. Howe Institute where he served as Associate Director of Research, Energy & Natural Resources.
With a deep understanding of the economic forces shaping Western Canada, Charles has led transformative initiatives on topics ranging from energy market structures and emissions regulation to trade infrastructure and investment strategy. His work is recognized for its rigour, relevance and practical policy application, and he is widely respected for his ability to engage diverse audiences—including capital markets, governments, regulators, NGOs and the media.
Gary Mar, President & CEO of the Canada West Foundation, shared his enthusiasm in welcoming DeLand to the CWF team: “Charles brings a strong combination of deep analytical expertise, strategic insight and an ability to translate complex economic issues into real-world policy solutions. As an accomplished economist with experience in both the public and private sectors, he understands the forces shaping Western Canada. His leadership will strengthen our ability to provide evidence-based research that helps shape a more prosperous future for the region.”
Charles holds a Master’s degree in Economics, is a CFA Charterholder, and earned a Professional Certificate in Strategic Decision and Risk Management from Stanford University.
Bernie Morton, Chief Operating Officer at the Canada West Foundation, shared that as Vice President, Research, Charles will lead the strategic direction of the Foundation’s Research Division, ensuring its work is aligned with the organization’s broader mission and responsive to the region’s most pressing challenges.
“He will oversee all research planning and execution, guide interdisciplinary collaboration across internal teams and external partners, and ensure that the Foundation’s work maintains the highest standards of analytical rigour and public impact. He will also mentor research staff, engage with funders and stakeholders, and represent the Foundation in public and media forums. Charles’ leadership will be central to growing the Foundation’s research influence and expanding its contributions to effective, evidence-based policy in Western Canada. His collaborative spirit, intellectual rigour and passion for public policy will be invaluable as we grow our impact and expand our reach. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
Please join us in warmly welcoming Charles DeLand to the Canada West Foundation.
About the Canada West Foundation
The Canada West Foundation is the non-partisan policy voice for Western Canada. Grounded in evidence and focused on impact, we work with governments, industry and partners to advance bold solutions that reflect the region’s priorities. From trade and infrastructure to energy, workforce and innovation, our work ensures Western Canada’s economic strength shapes national outcomes. When the West leads, Canada thrives.
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