This release was issued under a previous government.
He replaces Brian Topp, who served in the role since May 2015. Topp has been named as a Senior Fellow at Canada’s Public Policy Forum.
Before his appointment as Chief of Staff, Heaney served as Deputy Minister of Policy Co-ordination. He grew up in Edmonton and brings decades of government experience to his new role, including work for the Alberta NDP caucus in the 1980s.
In addition, Premier Notley named Jim Rutkowski as Principal Secretary in the Office of the Premier. An Edmonton native and University of Alberta graduate, Rutkowski served as the Chief of Staff to the Minister of Finance before taking up his new role. Current Principal Secretary Anne McGrath will head up the Premier’s Southern Alberta Office as its Executive Director
“John is enormously qualified, with decades of experience working in senior government and legislative positions. His expertise will help our government continue moving forward on Albertans’ priorities: supporting jobs, growing our economy and securing market access for our oil. I am very pleased to welcome him into his new role.
“Brian served my government and the people of Alberta with integrity and purpose. He was instrumental in advancing such major initiatives as the Climate Leadership Plan, establishing a stable electricity market and securing approval for the Trans Mountain Pipeline. On behalf of our government, I offer my heartfelt appreciation for his enormous contribution to our province.”