Baillie Encourages Others to Serve Nova Scotians

PREMIER'S OFFICE--Baillie Encourages Others to Serve Nova Scotians

After almost three years as chief of staff in Premier John Hamm's office, Jamie Baillie has accepted the position of vice- president, finance and operations with Credit Union Atlantic.

"Jamie Baillie is the longest-serving chief of staff to any Nova Scotia premier in the last 15 years, which is a tribute to his ability and success," said Premier John Hamm. "His leadership was instrumental to Nova Scotia achieving three consecutive balanced budgets, enhancing corporate and strategic planning within government and shifting public resources to health promotion and classroom education."

Premier Hamm said he is very grateful to Mr. Baillie, and his family, for the decision in 2001 to take a break from his private sector career to serve the Premier's Office. Premier Hamm said he will miss Mr. Baillie's judgment, leadership and friendship.

"Along with many others, I have benefited from Mr. Baillie's contribution to the Premier's Office and to the relationships he has fostered with a great many individuals and organizations both inside and outside government," added Premier Hamm. "Although he told me three years ago of his intent to eventually return to the private sector, his talent for helping government work better will nonetheless be missed by many."

Mr. Baillie said he has been privileged both personally and professionally by the opportunity to work with Premier Hamm and his cabinet, all members of the legislature, the public service and countless Nova Scotians who share his passion for this province.

"When I accepted the position in 2001, I felt the exchange of ideas and experience between government, business and other organizations would be invaluable," said Mr. Baillie. "While I have a much greater appreciation for the complexity of government, I am more convinced than ever of the merits of exchanging people and ideas across public and private organizations. I encourage others who want to make their province a better place to spend some time working in government if the opportunity arises."

Prior to working with the Premier's Office, Mr. Baillie was a partner in a Halifax-based executive search firm. He also held a number of senior finance positions with private companies. Raised in Truro, Mr. Baillie graduated from Dalhousie University with a bachelor of commerce degree in 1988 and received his designation as a chartered accountant in 1990. He is married and has two young daughters.

Mr. Baillie's appointment at Credit Union Atlantic is effective Oct. 18. It is expected a new chief of staff will be named in the next few weeks.