After decades of working within the Northern region, Kitikmeot Corporation’s Chief Operating Officer, John Stevenson, has retired. Much of John’s career focused on the growth and development of the Northern region and we’re proud to have had him on our team over the past 8 years!
We asked John some questions about his experience with KC and working within the North. You can read his interview below.
How would you summarize your years of experience with Kitikmeot?
Working for Kitikmeot Corporation as its COO has been a rewarding experience and the culmination of my entire career to date. To carry out my duties, I have had to draw on all my previous experience, while also being challenged to learn a great deal along the way. I’ve been very fortunate to have worked under the leadership of KC’s President and CEO, David Omilgoitok, and its Chairs, Stanley Anablak and Charlie Evalik.
I’m proud of my contributions to KC’s success. During my time with KC, the company doubled in value and became more diversified. KC acquired equity positions in companies that work across the country, and even internationally. While Kitikmeot will always be KC’s home, its economy is small and dominated by a few major resource projects and government spending. By diversifying in this way, KC is positioned to be supportive but less reliant on the Kitikmeot economy.
Why is it important for more companies to expand North?
I remain convinced that much of the future story of Canada will be written in its north, including its arctic regions. Natural resources especially will continue to play a very important role in the Canadian economy. I also believe that North American security will again become a major factor in the north’s economy over the next decade.
Any advice for companies looking to expand North?
Learn what you are getting into. The north has a unique culture and way of doing things. Those who take the time to learn about this may find success comes a bit easier.
Partnerships with local companies and residents are also very important. A lot of major economic opportunities in the north, such as industry or government contracts, are weighted in favor of local, Indigenous participation. Kitikmeot Corporation’s success has largely contributed to the incredible partnerships it has maintained over the last 25+ years.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Years ago, a friend and mentor advised me to trust my instincts. Modern business tends to be very analytical, and data-driven. While it’s important to know what you are getting into, you can easily become incapacitated by too much information and then fail to make the right decision at the right time. There are many ways of knowing and instinct is one such way. Sometimes a thing is right because it feels right.
What are you most looking forward to in this next chapter?
I plan to spend more time focusing on other aspects of life. My wife and I love to travel, and we look forward to seeing more of Canada and other parts of the world in the coming years.
I also intend to stay in touch with northern businesses, perhaps in an advisory role, or as a director on some corporate boards or Institutes of Public Government. After taking a little time, I may also return to more permanent work.
About John
Born in Southern Canada, but raised in several arctic communities, John has called Northern Canada home for most of his life. His career path includes serving as a Wildlife Officer in two of Canada’s northernmost communities Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord, working as a senior manager for the Government of Northwest Territories, and pursuing a consulting career that would eventually expand 15+ years.
Some highlights during that time included supporting Inuit Impact & Benefit Negotiations for major resource development projects, aiding local entrepreneurs to launch successful businesses, and helping Cambridge Bay land the Canadian High Arctic Research Station.
John worked closely with companies and organizations within Kitikmeot, especially with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association. In 2014, John moved back to the region where he joined Kitikmeot Corporation as Chief Operating Officer.
Although now retired from his position as Kitikmeot Corp’s COO, John will continue to assist KC on a part-time basis as an advisor to the President.
Dino Forlin–the formal Director, Business & Community Relations–will be stepping in as the new COO effective April 1, 2022. The leadership team of Kitikmeot Corp remains committed to facilitating growth for both our partner companies and the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut.
