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President & CEO, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation | Acting Interim President & CEO, Nunasi Corporation
Born and raised in Grise Fiord, Nunavut, Harry’s early years in Canada’s most northern civilian community helped develop a strong understanding of the importance of family, community and self-reliance.
“I’m reflective of the strength and perseverance I’ve gained from my parents, who were among the exiles transported to the North in the 1950’s in order to position Canada’s claim to the Arctic, and to recognize my grandfather Robert Flaherty who produced “Nanook of the North” he stated recently.
Harry moved to Iqaluit in 1975 to continue his High School education. It was during these first years in Iqaluit that Harry was exposed to the Mechanic trade with one of his part time jobs. It was through this early exposure to the Trades, and subsequent certification earned, that eventually saw Harry begin his career with the Government of the Northwest Territories in 1979.
Harry retired from his career with the public government in 1997 and began his new career with Qikiqtaaluk Corporation as lead on a major environmental remediation effort at Resolution Island under a multi-year agreement with Defense Canada. Harry’s emphasis on ensuring Inuit received significant career training and the resulting career development opportunities created a legacy that is still recognized today. At the end of this successful project, Harry’s efforts were recognized with the Indian and Northern Affaires Deputy Minister’s Pride and Recognition Award for Services Excellence.
It was soon after the conclusion of the Resolution Island project that Harry began his current position as President and CEO with Qikiqtaaluk Corporation. Working closely with QC’s Board of Directors, Harry’s effort has focused towards restructuring the corporation to reflect its long-term business objectives and positioning the corporation as a major participate across various sectors of Nunavut’s emerging economy. As President and CEO, Harry continues to emphasize the importance of career development for Inuit and to focus on those opportunities that QC can provide leadership in creating economic development and improving self-reliance by building capacity within the 13 communities of the Qikiqtani region.
In addition to his duties with QC, as Interim President and CEO of Nunasi Corporation, Harry has been providing support and guidance over the past few years as the Corporation views its strategic restructuring in synergy with Nunavut’s three regional development corporations.
Although Harry has served on a number of Boards, volunteered with minor hockey and other community organizations over the years, nowadays – with his busy schedule- he most values the time he is able to spend with family and outdoors.