Terry Audla joins Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. as CEO

Terry Audla, the current executive director of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, moves to Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. on Marh 14 where he becomes CEO of the land claims’ organization. (FILE PHOTO)

Terry Audla will serve as the new chief executive officer for Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., NTI president Cathy Towtongie announced Feb. 10.

Audla has worked as executive director of the the Qikiqtani Inuit Association since 2001, and has been involved with the implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement since 1993, the NTI news release said.

“Terry brings nearly two decades of experience with land claims implementation with him to NTI,” said Towtongie. “We are very pleased to have him as part of the team as NTI continues in its efforts to achieve full implementation of the NLCA.”

Audla starts his new job March 14.

He replaces Joe Kunuk, whose departure as CEO was announced this past Dec. 13. Kunuk was to have wound up his job at NTI this past Jan. 11 and will now serve as principal secretary to Nunavut premier Eva Aariak.

Audla, 40, grew up in Resolute Bay, then, at the age of 13, left to attend high school in Iqaluit, in what was then Frobisher Bay, boarding at the Ukkivik residence.

Audla then went on to Arctic College to study in the environmental technology program for two years and worked part-time at the Baffin Correction Centre as a correctional officer. He worked full time in this job for another three years.

In May of 1993, Audla joined the Baffin Regional Inuit Association — now known as the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, as a lands officer.

During NTI’s December 2010 election, Audla ran against Towtongie for the presidency, finishing second.