Ottawa is introducing a new federal entity, Digital Transformation Canada, aimed at enhancing Canadians’ access to government services through digital technologies. The Prime Minister’s Office revealed the establishment of this organization, which will focus on improving the government’s technology development, procurement, and usage, among other key objectives. Patrick Pichette, Google’s former chief financial officer and an executive at Bell Canada, McKinsey, and Spring Canada, has been appointed as the CEO of Digital Transformation Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized Pichette’s expertise in digital transformation and innovation, highlighting the importance of his role in advancing the agency’s mission. The agency’s primary goals include implementing digital solutions like artificial intelligence across government departments to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance digital security and sovereignty.
Carney expressed confidence that by modernizing service delivery, minimizing duplication, and supporting Canadian tech firms, the economy will strengthen, benefiting Canadians and positioning Canada as a leader in the digital era. The agency will also empower public servants with tools to enhance service efficiency and provide financial support to Canadian AI and digital companies for testing, scaling, and commercializing new technologies.
Under the leadership of Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works, and Procurement Joël Lightbound, Digital Transformation Canada will merge Shared Services Canada with selected divisions from the Treasury Board Secretariat, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada.