Manitoba Inuit Association appoints interim CEO amid leadership uncertainty

The Manitoba Inuit Association has appointed an interim chief executive officer but declined to provide further details about the apparent change in leadership.

The association — which confirmed in an email to Nunatsiaq News that the appointment is effective as of Oct. 18 — did not say whether the move means CEO Nastania Mullin has left his position.

As of Wednesday, Mullin is still listed as chief executive officer on the website of the Winnipeg-based organization that provides community programming, advocacy and cultural support services to Inuit living in Manitoba.

Nunatsiaq News tried to contact Mullin for comment but did not receive a response. His work email’s automated reply said he is out of the office.

Neither the association nor Mullin has commented publicly on whether Mullin’s tenure as CEO has ended or who is serving in the interim role. Representatives for the association did not respond to Nunatsiaq News’ request for comment.

Secretary-treasurer Joanie Alice French announced her resignation from the association board on Oct. 18.

“This decision was made under duress, following ongoing governance irregularities and procedural issues that created an environment in which I could no longer responsibly carry out my duties,” said French, in a statement shared with Nunatsiaq News.

She said she took the step “to uphold those values of [transparency, accountability, and the well-being of Inuit in Manitoba] and to protect my own integrity.”

French did not provide further details about the work environment that led to her resignation.

Mullin, originally from Resolute Bay, was appointed the association’s CEO on Sept. 12, 2022, according to a news release at the time.

The announcement cited his background in business administration, law, and policy, as well as extensive experience working with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the Government of Nunavut, and Qulliq Power Corp., where he chaired the governance committee.

Earlier this year, the association publicly defended its workplace environment following an internal review.

In an April 22 news release, the association said an independent investigation found “no evidence of a toxic workplace nor financial impropriety.”

“The perception of retaliation for raising concerns stemmed from misunderstandings regarding departures of two staff,” the report found, concluding there was “no concrete evidence of actual retaliation.”

At the time, Mullin emphasized the organization’s focus on maintaining a healthy workplace.

“We take pride in building a culture of mutual respect, inclusivity, and support for all employees,” he said in the April statement. “We view that as an opportunity to grow stronger together.”

Association board president Michael Kusugak said the findings reflected a “positive workplace” and “strong, stable leadership.” He said the organization remained committed to “providing ongoing training and development opportunities that support our employees’ growth, confidence, and long-term success.”