Ellen Frisch

Originally trained as an economist, Ellen spent her early career establishing the first managed health care networks in California and Oregon. At the BC Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, she served indigenous communities negotiating health and educational service transitions and later provided analysis that resulted in development of the Treaty Commission. Over ten years she designed BC’s first regional stakeholder consultation processes and led successful treaty negotiations, responsible for land, resource and governance mandates and policy drafting. As Executive Director at the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources from 2005 to 2010, Ellen led the development of BC’s first international energy and mining investment strategy; contributed to redevelopment of energy regulation and supported development of the green energy and low carbon economy initiatives.  All of the initiatives have served to build bridges between communities and industry and positively transform how BC implements traditional and clean energy planning. Her work culminated in a number of new trade initiatives, innovative operational programs and legislative and regulatory developments that enhance business and community opportunities in BC. Ellen’s strengths flow from her ability to enable connections between vibrant economies and sustainable communities, whether forestry, agriculture, ranching, fisheries, tourism, aquaculture or energy development.