Post by Icons of Change™

Icons of Change International Awards 2026 Kelly Gillis, CPA, ICD·D   Former Deputy Minister, Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada   Former Associate Deputy Minister, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)   Former Assistant Secretary and Chief Financial Officer, Treasury Board Secretariat   Ex-officio Director, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation   Past President, Institute of Public Administration of Canada   Board Member, Canadian Mental Health Association | Canadian Urban Institute | HealthPartners  SDG Focus: Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities  Changemaker for Inclusive Infrastructure, Innovative Public Policy, Sustainable Housing, and Ethical Public Sector Leadership (Canada) --- Behind every thriving community and resilient city is a leader who understands that infrastructure is about more than concrete — it’s about dignity, opportunity, and a better future. Kelly Gillis, has dedicated her 25+ year career in public service to building systems that work for people. With deep expertise in finance, innovation, infrastructure, and housing, she has shaped national priorities that deliver affordable housing, climate-resilient infrastructure, inclusive growth, and sustainable communities. Her leadership has been guided by Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — ensuring economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion advance together. As Deputy Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (2017–2024), Kelly led major investments in public transit, climate adaptation, affordable housing, and community development. Previously at ISED, she advanced Canada’s Inclusive Innovation Agenda, clean growth strategies, and the Connect to Innovate program, expanding broadband to rural and remote communities. A Chartered Professional Accountant with an ICD·D designation, she brings rigorous financial acumen and governance excellence to every role. Her influence extends across institutions as ex-officio Director of CMHC, Past President of IPAC, and board member of leading organizations focused on mental health, urban issues, and health innovation. Through collaborative, inclusive leadership, Kelly has strengthened cross-sector partnerships with governments, Indigenous partners, municipalities, and industry — delivering tangible results for Canadians. Her selection as a 2026 Icon of Change recognizes her outstanding contributions to sustainable infrastructure, housing solutions, inclusive economic development, and ethical governance that build resilient communities across Canada. --- #IconsOfChange #IconsOfChange2026 #KellyGillis #SDG11 #SustainableCities #PublicSectorLeadership #InclusiveInfrastructure #HousingInnovation #CanadianLeadership Kelly Gillis, ICD.D