Leadership Announcement – Ken Donnelly, Executive Director
[Version française]
Invasives Canada welcomes Ken Donnelly as Executive Director
March 10, 2026 – Williams Lake, British Columbia – The Board of Directors of Invasives Canada is pleased to announce that Ken Donnelly has been appointed as the organization’s new Executive Director.
Mr. Donnelly brings 34 years of experience in environmental program management, strategic planning, communications and community engagement to his new role. Over the past 15 years, he has concentrated his time and efforts on responding to the rising challenge of invasive species in Canada and safeguarding species at risk. He has served as the Chair of the Board of Directors of Invasives Canada and, most recently, as Supervisor for the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council.
Invasives Canada is the nation’s leader in safeguarding ecosystems, communities, and economies from the growing threat of invasive species. Leading a national network of chapters, partners, and supporters, Invasives Canada works in the prevention and management of invasive species in Canada while promoting sustainable land and water management.
“The board of directors and the entire team at Invasives Canada is excited to have someone of Ken’s background and expertise take on the Executive Director role” said Gail Wallin, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors. “Ken brings extensive experience and a broad network of partners and colleagues to the job at an important time for our organization and for the management of invasive species in Canada.”
As Executive Director, Ken joins a talented, skilled and passionate team of stewards at Invasives Canada as well as a community of highly effective regional chapters, volunteers and partners dedicated to responding to the challenge of invasives species in Canada.
The Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to thank Rebecca Lord for her exemplary service as the first Executive Director of Invasives Canada. Rebecca has had a tremendously positive impact on the work and team of Invasives Canada over the past three years.
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Invasive species – plants, animals, and pathogens introduced outside of their natural range, primarily through human intervention. Once established, they spread rapidly due to the lack of natural checks and balances found in their native ecosystems. They disrupt ecological stability, harm biodiversity, and impose significant economic and cultural costs. By working together with partners at the local, provincial, and national levels, Invasives Canada is responding to the challenge of invasive species and helping to protect Canada’s natural heritage.
