Melanie Ducharme
Director, Strategic Communications

Melanie Ducharme is the Director, Strategic Communications at the Canada West Foundation, bringing over 20 years of experience leading strategic communications in complex, highly regulated sectors. She has extensive experience in the energy industry, government and public affairs, with expertise in media relations, issues management and crisis communications.

Most recently, Melanie served as Senior Strategic Communication Partner at the Alberta Energy Regulator, where she led communications for the Industry Performance Program and high-profile issues such as the management of liability in the province of Alberta. Previously, at Suncor Energy, she managed the external engagement program, securing high impact speaking opportunities for executives, and led communications for the Syncrude operatorship initiative.

Her background also includes roles with the City of Calgary, BP Canada and Communica Public Affairs. In addition, she has authored eight science textbooks with Weigl Educational Publishers for use in Canadian schools. Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Sciences from the University of Alberta, a Diploma in Journalism from MacEwan University, and a Certificate in Public Relations from Mount Royal University.