July 31, 2017

CALGARY — On September 5, Glen Murray will become executive director of the Pembina Institute, a 30-year-old think-tank that undertakes research, education, consulting, and advocacy to advance pragmatic clean energy solutions.

As a seasoned activist and veteran of provincial and municipal governments, Murray is ideally suited to lead the Pembina Institute into its next chapter. Murray is a former mayor of Winnipeg and most recently served as Ontario’s minister of environment and climate change. Throughout his distinguished career in the public and not-for-profit sectors, Murray has made important contributions on issues of international human rights, climate change, and sustainable development.

Murray’s affinity for big tent, collaborative solutions and his long-standing commitment to community development are in keeping with the Pembina Institute’s DNA. The Institute was formed following the 1982 Lodgepole blowout at a sour gas well in Alberta. In response, a small group of rural Albertans came together to secure stronger regulations for Alberta’s oil and gas sector — some of which are still in place today.

Since its founding, the Pembina Institute has grown into a national organization, but its goals remain the same: responsible development of Canada’s energy resources, healthy and prosperous communities, and bold climate leadership from governments and industry.

Murray will succeed Ed Whittingham, who successfully led the Pembina Institute through a period of unprecedented policy change, in Alberta and across Canada, over the last six and a half years.

Quotes

“Glen is a renowned thought leader on social and environmental issues, with an impressive track record of policy leadership throughout his tenure in elected office. On behalf of the board of directors, I am thrilled that Glen is joining our talented team and know he will propel the Pembina Institute to new heights as we work to solve today’s greatest energy challenges.”

— David Runnalls, president, Pembina Institute

“More than ever, the world needs Canada to lead the fight against climate change. With its national team of experts and its proven ability to craft solutions with industry, government, and communities, the Pembina Institute is essential to finding the way forward. I’m excited to join the Institute at this critical juncture and look forward to working with its outstanding staff and supporters.”

— Glen Murray, incoming executive director, Pembina Institute

“From its humble roots in rural Alberta, the Pembina Institute has grown into Canada’s leading clean energy think-tank. I am delighted to pass the torch to a highly respected climate champion who knows how to build bridges with industry, government, and communities — across Canada and internationally. Under Glen’s leadership, I am confident that our remarkable staff will continue to play an essential role in building Canada’s clean growth future.”

— Ed Whittingham, outgoing executive director, Pembina Institute

Quick facts

In 1984, the Pembina Institute was founded in Drayton Valley, Alberta. The non-profit think-tank’s headquarters is in Calgary.

The Institute advances evidence-based solutions to support Canada’s clean energy transition. Its staff are technical and policy experts on a range of climate and energy issues, including responsible fossil fuel development, energy efficient buildings, clean transportation, and electricity sector decarbonization.

The Institute has offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Ottawa.

Glen Murray has also served as chair of the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, and president and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute.

As an Ontario cabinet minister between 2010 and 2017, Murray oversaw several portfolios: Environment and Climate Change; Infrastructure; Transportation; Training, Colleges, and Universities; and Research and Innovation.

Murray served as mayor of Winnipeg from 1998 to 2004. He was the first openly gay mayor of a large city in North America.

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Join the conversation on Twitter: @Pembina

Learn more about the Pembina Institute: www.pembina.org

Contact

Andrew Aziz

Communications Director

647-217-7967

andrewa@pembina.org

Stephen Hui

Communications Lead

stephenh@pembina.org

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