The Government of Alberta announced the appointment of Brad Ferguson as chair of the University of Alberta Board of Governors, effective April 23, 2026.
Brad is a University of Alberta grad, earning a BA in Economics (‘92) and a BCom in Finance (‘95) and has built an extensive career in business and economic development. He is senior vice-president and the Western Canadian market lead for Optimus SBR, Canada’s largest independently owned management consulting firm. His career has centred on advancing innovation and realizing Alberta’s potential in natural resources, life sciences, engineering and construction, and the social sciences.
Brad has held several leadership roles that have contributed to Edmonton and Alberta, including serving as president and CEO of Edmonton Economic Development Corporation and as an assistant deputy minister with the Government of Alberta’s Executive Council.
He also brings significant governance experience, currently serving on the board of Invest in Canada and previously serving as vice-chair for TEC Edmonton and the TELUS World of Science, as well as a board member for the Winspear Centre and the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Science and Engineering.
His connection to the university spans generations. His father, John Ferguson (‘64 BCom), served as chair of the Board of Governors and later as the university’s 17th chancellor. His late mother, Bunny Ferguson, was the founding chair of the Alberta Business Family Institute at the Alberta School of Business, supported many community initiatives, and received an honorary degree from the U of A in 2011.
I want to thank Kate Chisholm, whose extended term as chair of the board ended in November 2025, and recognize her service to the U of A over two terms. I also want to thank Guy Bridgeman, who served as board chair until his vice-chair term ended in late February 2026. I am also grateful to Chancellor Nizar Somji for serving as vice chair and performing chair duties since late February, ensuring continuity of leadership.
On behalf of the university community, I congratulate Brad on his appointment and am pleased to welcome him to this integral leadership role.
Bill Flanagan
President and vice-chancellor