Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin Takes the Helm of CEC's JPAC in 2025
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) recently appointed Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin as the new Chair of its Joint Public Advisory Committee (JPAC) for the year 2025. With more than 15 years of leadership experience in the natural resources and energy sectors, Audouin currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Inuit-owned Nukik Corporation based in Nunavut, Canada. Her appointment is a testament to her extensive background and commitment to advancing critical environmental initiatives.
As the CEO of Nukik Corporation, Audouin has been integral in developing significant infrastructure projects in the Kivalliq region, focusing on renewable energy resources and enhancing broadband connectivity. One of her pivotal initiatives is the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, a multi-billion-dollar project expected to offer substantial benefits to the region and its inhabitants. Audouin's strategic vision aims to bolster sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the community while also addressing environmental challenges.
In her acceptance statement, Audouin expressed her enthusiasm for chairing the JPAC, noting the importance of working alongside professionals dedicated to promoting sustainability and engaging Indigenous communities. "I am honored to take on the role of chair of the CEC's Joint Public Advisory Committee. The opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated group of professionals, advancing initiatives that promote sustainability, ecosystem protection, and Indigenous community engagement, is something I deeply value," she said. This willingness to collaborate emphasizes her dedication to not only continuing but also expanding on previous efforts in the CEC.
CEC Executive Director Jorge Daniel Taillant highlighted Audouin's wealth of experience and private sector leadership as vitally important assets for her new role. He mentioned, "The CEC has had the fortune of working with Anne-Raphaëlle for many years on JPAC initiatives. Following the outgoing JPAC Chair, Esteban Escamilla Prado, I am confident that Anne-Raphaëlle will continue to expand the constructive JPAC outreach and engagement that we have recently observed with the Traditional Ecological Knowledge Expert Group as well as with other key actors in the region."
Audouin, who has been a member of JPAC since 2019 and was reappointed in 2022, is crucial in advocating for sustainable development and ecosystem protection within the North American context. Her past experiences include her previous leadership role as President and CEO of WaterPower Canada, a national association that represents Canada's largest electricity sector. Additionally, she has worked as an Environmental and Social Impacts Management Specialist at Hatch Ltd., directing her expertise toward energy and mining projects.
Her educational background is equally impressive, holding a Business Administration degree from the Université de Nantes in France, along with Civil Law and Common Law degrees from the University of Ottawa, and a Master's in Environmental and Natural Resources Management from Dalhousie University. She also earned an Executive Certificate in Corporate Sustainability from Yale School of Management in 2021, enhancing her credibility in sustainability matters. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, Audouin can engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.
The CEC's JPAC is vital in fostering collaboration between Canada, Mexico, and the United States, concentrating on addressing shared environmental challenges. As Audouin steps into her new role, there is a palpable optimism around her leadership that aims to enhance initiatives focused on ecological preservation and the sustainability of Indigenous communities. With each endeavor, she aims to bridge gaps and drive forward collaborative efforts that will create a positive impact across the continent.
For more information about the CEC’s Joint Public Advisory Committee and its initiatives, prospective members and interested parties are encouraged to visit the official CEC website. Stay updated on CEC developments by joining their newsletter and following their social media channels.