NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines names Paul Hébert as CEO

The NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines has hired Paul Hébert as its new CEO, bringing in an experienced association leader as Canada's North gains momentum in the global race for critical minerals.

Hébert will start May 11, 2026, taking over an organization that's been the voice of Northern mining since 1967.

Veteran leader steps in

The new CEO brings more than two decades of association management experience, most recently serving as Vice President of Communications at the Mining Association of Canada. He's also worked with the Mining Industry Human Resource Council, The Canadian Nuclear Association and The Appraisal Institute of Canada.

"Paul is a change agent and consensus builder," Chamber President Tim Syer said. "We found a CEO who will increase value for members and be a strong advocate at a time when the North is getting unprecedented attention."

For Hébert, the timing feels right. "This is an exciting time for the mining industry," he said. "Canada's North has incredible mineral wealth and could become a major player globally. Critical minerals will only become more important, and I want to help the NWT and Nunavut capitalize on these opportunities for everyone's benefit."

North's mining moment

The territories are emerging as crucial suppliers of materials needed for the energy transition—lithium for batteries, rare earth elements for wind turbines, and cobalt for electric vehicles. As governments worldwide scramble to secure supply chains, Northern Canada sits on some of the world's most promising deposits.

The Chamber works with Indigenous communities, governments and industry to advance projects responsibly. The Chamber has in the past described this work as a "balancing act" between economic development and environmental protection that defines modern Northern mining.

Background and experience

Hébert studied English Literature at Carleton University and later completed executive programs at the University of Toronto, McGill and Oxford's Saïd Business School. The Canadian Institute of Mining honoured him as a Distinguished Lecturer in 2006-07.

The NWT currently operates two diamond mines, while Nunavut runs three gold operations and an iron ore project. Together, these operations employ thousands and generate billions in economic activity, showing the industry's potential when done right.

As global demand for Northern minerals accelerates, Hébert will help guide the Chamber through what could be a defining period for mining in Canada's territories.

For more information on the NWT and Nunavut mining industries, please visit the NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines website at www.MiningNorth.com