Leading the Forest Policy and Indigenous Relations Division, Melissa is accountable for delivering comprehensive forest policies in cooperation with stakeholders while advancing our ministry’s reconciliation work with Indigenous Peoples. Melissa previously worked with Nova Scotia Power and the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. She is dedicated to supporting the natural resource sector, economic development, and building strong communities across the province. Melissa has over 15 years of experience working in both the public and private sector. Her many strengths include stakeholder relations, public engagement, organizational change management, strategic initiatives, and policy communications. Her hobbies include exploring Vancouver Island, spending time outdoors, and reading. She grew up in Surrey and studied at Simon Fraser University.