Carney appoints Janice Charette as Chief Trade Negotiator to U.S.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Janice Charette as Canada’s next Chief Trade Negotiator to the United States, the Prime Minister’s Office announced Monday.

Charette brings four decades of experience in public policy and diplomacy. She has served twice as clerk of the Privy Council and secretary to the cabinet — the top position in Canada’s public service — and has represented Canada abroad, including as high commissioner to the United Kingdom.

In her new role, Charette will work closely with Canada’s ambassador to the United States, Mark Wiseman, and serve as a senior adviser to Carney and the minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, Dominic LeBlanc.

Her responsibilities will include advising on the upcoming review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement and efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between Canada and the United States.

Carney also thanked Kirsten Hillman for her work as chief trade negotiator while serving as Canada’s ambassador in Washington.

The Prime Minister said Hillman played a key role in defending Canadian interests and promoting economic opportunities for workers as part of the bilateral relationship.