A bit of a shakeup in senior leadership in Nova Scotia’s public service.

The province says Premier Tim Houston has announced Stephen MacDonald as Deputy Minister of Energy.

He is the former president and CEO of EfficiencyOne and a chartered professional accountant.

‘Nova Scotia is becoming an economic powerhouse. From Wind West to critical minerals, we are unleashing Nova Scotia’s untapped potential,” says Houston in a statement. “I’m excited to have Mr. MacDonald join the team at the Department of Energy as we shape the future of our economy.”

In addition, Karen Gatien, the current Deputy Minister of Energy, will take the role of Deputy Minister of Advanced Education. She will keep her responsibilities of Executive Deputy Minister.

Gatien takes over the portfolio from Tracey Barbrick who will be Deputy Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development.

The appointments take effect on Wednesday.