Mike brings a wealth of both private and public sector experience to his role as V.P. Atlantic Canada for Sussex Strategy Group.  

He understands the Atlantic Canadian business and government landscape very well.  He comes to Sussex after serving two terms as a senior cabinet minister in the New Brunswick government.  His responsibilities spanned several departments including Natural Resources, Energy and Mines, Indigenous Affairs, Crown Lands, Forestry and Fish and Wildlife. At the time of his departure, he was the most senior energy minister in Canada and has developed strong working relationships throughout the entire country.

His experience lends to being able to offer valuable council in the energy sector, conservation and land preservation, as well as most aspects of government relations.

Prior to serving in public office, he served the province of New Brunswick as a Chief of Staff to cabinet ministers in various portfolios and even led a company he founded to be a successful participant on CBCs Dragons Den program highlighting Canadian entrepreneurs.

Mike looks at everything through a strategic lens and focuses on finding solutions that lead to results.  He can point to his successes which saw the historic doubling of protected land for conservation purposes in New Brunswick.  He was instrumental in placing New Brunswick on the national stage for the advancement of nuclear energy and during his time in office, he led his team to making over 300 changes to legislation, policy and regulations.

His efforts have been recognized provincially, nationally and internationally.  

He was awarded the 2020 Person of the Year for the New Brunswick Wildlife Federation. The 2020 Past Presidents Canadian Legislator Award from the Canadian Wildlife Federation in recognition of outstanding contributions to legislation that protects wildlife.  The 2022 Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada Person of the Year award for conservation initiatives. In 2024 he was awarded the Delta Waterfowl Legacy Award for his commitment to growing wildlife habitat and he was also the recipient of the Queens Platinum Jubilee Award in 2022 for outstanding contributions to the province of New Brunswick.

Outside of work, Mike sits on the board of several national conservation organizations and enjoys a variety of outdoor activities with his family.