Manitoba Inuit Association appoints interim CEO amid leadership uncertainty
Treasurer resigns citing governance issues as former CEO Nastania Mullin’s status remains unclear
Seen here in a September 2017 photo, Nastania Mullin’s status as the chief executive officer of the Manitoba Inuit Association is unclear after the organization confirmed the appointment of an interim CEO on Oct. 18. The association declined to provide a reason for the leadership change. (File photo)
The Manitoba Inuit Association has appointed an interim chief executive officer but declined to provide further details about the apparent change in leadership.
The association — which confirmed in an email to Nunatsiaq News that the appointment is effective as of Oct. 18 — did not say whether the move means CEO Nastania Mullin has left his position.
As of Wednesday, Mullin is still listed as chief executive officer on the website of the Winnipeg-based organization that provides community programming, advocacy and cultural support services to Inuit living in Manitoba.
Nunatsiaq News tried to contact Mullin for comment but did not receive a response. His work email’s automated reply said he is out of the office.
Neither the association nor Mullin has commented publicly on whether Mullin’s tenure as CEO has ended or who is serving in the interim role. Representatives for the association did not respond to Nunatsiaq News’ request for comment.
Secretary-treasurer Joanie Alice French announced her resignation from the association board on Oct. 18.
“This decision was made under duress, following ongoing governance irregularities and procedural issues that created an environment in which I could no longer responsibly carry out my duties,” said French, in a statement shared with Nunatsiaq News.
She said she took the step “to uphold those values of [transparency, accountability, and the well-being of Inuit in Manitoba] and to protect my own integrity.”
French did not provide further details about the work environment that led to her resignation.
Mullin, originally from Resolute Bay, was appointed the association’s CEO on Sept. 12, 2022, according to a news release at the time.
The announcement cited his background in business administration, law, and policy, as well as extensive experience working with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the Government of Nunavut, and Qulliq Power Corp., where he chaired the governance committee.
Earlier this year, the association publicly defended its workplace environment following an internal review.
In an April 22 news release, the association said an independent investigation found “no evidence of a toxic workplace nor financial impropriety.”
“The perception of retaliation for raising concerns stemmed from misunderstandings regarding departures of two staff,” the report found, concluding there was “no concrete evidence of actual retaliation.”
At the time, Mullin emphasized the organization’s focus on maintaining a healthy workplace.
“We take pride in building a culture of mutual respect, inclusivity, and support for all employees,” he said in the April statement. “We view that as an opportunity to grow stronger together.”
Association board president Michael Kusugak said the findings reflected a “positive workplace” and “strong, stable leadership.” He said the organization remained committed to “providing ongoing training and development opportunities that support our employees’ growth, confidence, and long-term success.”
We demand MP Lori Idlout make a statement denouncing violence towards Inuit Women and children. #inuitmetoo
Yea, those statements really move the ball don’t they? They pack about as much punch as a Nunatsiaq editorial. Empty calories but someone feels good about them I guess.
She is turning a blind eye on this one. Nunatsiaq News blocked the reason I gave
they blocked my comment as well! Nothing like censorship..
So who is the interim CEO?
There can’t be more than a thousand card-carrying Inuk in Manitoba, never mind that a Manitoba Inuit Association would have any value regardless of the number of clients.
This Association is a blatant example of the thousands of NGOs and non-profits in Canada that serve less than zero purpose. In virtually all instances their existence is a net-negative to society regardless of the metric used.
Add in the hyper-corriotion and incompetence of individuals within these organizations and it’s impossible not to shudder at the collective and individual ignorance and selfishness
You are wrong S, damn wrong. I have family in Winnipeg and this Org has been instrumental in their well being. One of the family member is waiting for heart transplant which would take place in Edmonton. He will be receiving a new heart soon. S, just because you aren’t a client to MIA you had to open your big fat mouth just because? Do you know their (MIA) history?
huh really complicated words your’e using
S, if you were a Manitoba Inuk, you would really appreciate what they trying to do, help fellow Inuk, something you will never understand…