Leadership Change at Provincial Economic Development Agency
Rick Christiaanse has abruptly departed his role as CEO of Invest Alberta after leading the provincial corporation for four years. The unexpected leadership change occurred Monday, with Christiaanse’s profile immediately removed from the organization’s website.
Transition Plan Activated
Keith Bradley, previously the agency’s Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Acting CEO. In communications with stakeholders, Bradley emphasized continuity in operations, stating he would ensure “stability” during the transition period.
“Our mandate, priorities, and strategy remain unchanged,” Bradley wrote. “There is no impact to the work currently underway with our partners and stakeholders. Our team remains fully engaged and focused on delivering results.”
Global Investment Mandate Continues
Established in 2020 with a $17-million annual budget, Invest Alberta operates under the provincial government’s economic framework. The corporation maintains offices across North America, Asia, and Europe, focusing on attracting investment across multiple sectors including energy technology, carbon capture, agriculture, and data infrastructure.
Executive Expenditures Revealed
Financial disclosures show Christiaanse incurred $615,073.67 in travel, hospitality, and workshop expenses during his tenure. His itinerary included business trips to Vienna, Dubai, Tokyo, London, and numerous Alberta mountain destinations between early 2022 and mid-2025.
The former CEO received an annual salary of $281,280 this year. In a January blog post titled “Alberta’s Next Trillion-Dollar Trajectory,” Christiaanse had outlined growth opportunities in hydrogen development and agricultural technology.
Provincial Leadership Silent on Departure
Neither Invest Alberta’s communications team nor the Premier’s Office had issued official statements regarding the leadership change as of Monday evening. The organization continues its global investment attraction efforts during the transition period.
