Senior Executive Director hired for Skills and Learning Branch

EDUCATION--Senior Executive Director hired for Skills and Learning Branch

A senior executive director has been hired to develop and implement the province's labour market strategy and the Skills Nova Scotia Framework. Stuart Gourley begins with the Department of Education today, Sept. 30.

Under the leadership of Mr. Gourley, the Skills and Learning Branch of the Department of Education will lead the provincial effort to implement the Skills Nova Scotia Framework. Additionally, the branch will be responsible for federal- provincial labour market policy and research, adult learning, apprenticeship and the Youth Secretariat.

"Mr. Gourley brings more than 25 years of experience to the Department of Education," said Education Minister Jane Purves. "His expertise spans management, planning and operations across all sectors, including business, labour, industry and education. He will be an asset to our department."

Mr. Gourley, formerly president of Sage Support Services of Halifax, has significant experience in the health-care, education and business sectors. He has worked with Canadian and international governments at all levels, and recognizes that the key to the success of the labour market strategy is building partnerships and working with a diverse group of stakeholders.

Mr. Gourley has experience with education issues in post- secondary institutions and schools, and is the former School Advisory Council vice-chair for Sir John A. Macdonald High School in Timberlea.

Skills Nova Scotia is a provincial initiative being led by the Department of Education under the new Skills and Learning Branch. The branch will consist of policy and program elements necessary to lead the province's efforts in skills development and contribute to the implementation of the Skills Nova Scotia Framework.