Ottawa is introducing a new federal organization focused on leveraging digital technologies to enhance Canadians’ access to and interaction with government services. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued a news release on Thursday unveiling the establishment of Digital Transformation Canada, which seeks to streamline the government’s technology development, procurement, and utilization processes, among other key objectives.
The PMO also revealed the appointment of Patrick Pichette as the new CEO of Digital Transformation Canada. Pichette, who previously served as Google’s chief financial officer from 2008 to 2015, brings extensive expertise in digital transformation, innovation, and organizational change, as well as experience at Bell Canada, McKinsey, and Spring Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed confidence in Pichette’s addition, emphasizing the importance of advancing digital transformation initiatives. The new agency aims to implement digital solutions, including artificial intelligence, across government operations to reduce redundancy and operational expenses, while enhancing digital sovereignty and security.
Carney highlighted the agency’s objectives of modernizing public service delivery, minimizing duplication, and fostering the growth of Canadian technology companies to bolster the economy, enhance outcomes for Canadians, and position Canada as a leader in the digital era.
The release outlined that the agency will empower public servants with tools to streamline administrative processes and enhance service delivery efficiency. Additionally, it stated that federal funding would be allocated to support Canadian AI and digital firms in testing, scaling, and commercializing innovative technologies.
Under the supervision of Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works, and Procurement Joël Lightbound, the new agency will merge Shared Services Canada with components of the Treasury Board Secretariat, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada.