Premier Ranj Pillai recently announced changes at the top tier of government and commented on the appointment of a new administrator.
Based on the recommendation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Gov. Gen. Mary Simon appointed Donald J. Inverarity as the Yukon’s administrator for a three-year term.
The administrator takes on the office and functions of the commissioner when they are sick or away or when the position of the commissioner is unfilled.
“Donald has a distinguished career in public service, business, volunteerism and promoting digital literacy,” Pillai said in a government press release. “Through his commitment to serving our territory, Donald brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this important role.”
Another government press release announced that Pillai made Jennifer Gehmair the acting deputy minister of the Department of Health and Social Services. She’ll be in charge of social services for six months, starting May 3.
Gehmair is a born-and-raised Yukoner with 17 years of working for the Yukon government in a range of leadership roles, according to the release. She has been acting deputy minister of social services since 2022.
Furthermore, Pillai selected Gary Gazankas as president and chief executive officer of the Yukon Development Corporation, beginning May 13.
Gazankas served as the executive vice president of Energy for the Atlin Tlingit Economic Limited Partnership prior to taking on his new role. Per the release, his expertise covers a variety of energy sources, including hydro, wind, solar and thermal power.
The release adds that Dennis Berry will go on as president of the Yukon Liquor Corporation and Lotteries Yukon.
Former Department of Health and Social Services deputy minister Ed Van Randen is retiring from the Yukon government.
Contact Dana Hatherly at dana.hatherly@yukon-news.com