Gordon Campbell’s top deputy leaving government

VICTORIA — Jessica McDonald, head of B.C.’s public service and deputy minister to Premier Gordon Campbell, is leaving government, she announced Monday.

A key member of Campbell’s administration, McDonald has overseen several high-profile programs, including a recent round of layoffs within the public service.

McDonald has been Campbell’s key deputy since 2005, and was the first women to ever lead B.C.’s public service.

She does not currently have another job in place.

The change comes amidst a turbulent period for Campbell’s Liberal government, which has dropped in the polls since the last election over issues such as the snap decision to adopt a harmonized sales tax.

McDonald will be replaced on Tuesday by Allan Seckel, the top bureaucrat in the Attorney General’s ministry through most of Campbell’s time in government.

During McDonald’s tenure, the public service became recognized as one of B.C.’s Top 50 Employers and this year McDonald was named in the Caldwell Partners International Inc. Top 40 Under 40.

During her time, McDonald has also at times became a lighting rod for criticism, including heavy criticism last year during the controversy over pay increases for deputy ministers.

jfowlie@vancouversun.com

Full text of Jessica McDonald’s letter:

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Thank You to the BC Public Service

Good morning. I am writing to you today to announce that I will be leaving the BC Public Service. I know this will come as a surprise, and I wanted to convey my personal thoughts directly to all of you.

I have served as a Deputy Minister to Premier Campbell for six years, more than four of which as Head of the BC Public Service. These years have been a constant source of great pride and it is difficult to imagine a more rewarding opportunity, not just as part of a career, but as a British Columbian.

A healthy organization is a constantly evolving one where new ideas and energy come together to chart a strong course forward. We have made great strides over the past few years, and I feel it is time to step aside and give the opportunity to another to continue this work.

This was not an easy decision. I considered enabling a change of leadership during the transition immediately following the election, but I found I could not take the decision to leave in the middle of impending workforce adjustment.

I felt it was important to see any job impacts through, continuing to work on finding every solution to minimize effects on employees.

I am proud of the intensive work we have done over the months leading up to the implementation of the revised budget. I can now leave my position knowing in my heart that every step has been taken to continue building a strong public service and avoid any unnecessary hardship for individuals.

While I am announcing my intentions today, I will remain available to assist my colleague and successor, Deputy Attorney General Allan Seckel, over a three-month period to ensure a smooth transition.

I have no immediate plans for my future, other than to spend time with my family and consider the next phase of my career. Thank you for making the past six years so memorable and rewarding.

I have found my strength during challenging times in the inspiring work of individuals across the public service.

Thank you for the work you do every day, and for the values you uphold.

Sincerely,

Jessica