Lisa Smylie joined the Canada School of Public Service in April 2026 as an executive faculty member, bringing two decades of experience in the federal public service, most recently as assistant deputy minister of Strategic Policy and Partnerships at Indigenous Services Canada.
Lisa has held a wide range of senior executive roles across Indigenous Services Canada, Women and Gender Equality Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada. Her experience spans strategic policy, governance, grants and contributions programs, evaluation, communications, performance measurement, research, and system transformation in complex and highly horizontal environments. She has extensive experience working with Indigenous partners, central agencies, and Cabinet and parliamentary processes, and in leading large, multidisciplinary organizations through periods of change.
Before joining the federal public service, Lisa was a professor and researcher at the University of Windsor. She holds a PhD in sociology and social justice and brings deep expertise in evidence‑informed decision‑making, evaluation, and public sector leadership.
Lisa is known for building inclusive, high‑performing teams and for her thoughtful, ethical approach to leadership. She is dedicated to lifelong learning, has a strong passion for supporting the growth and development of others, and is deeply motivated by seeing individuals build confidence, judgment, and clarity in their leadership practice. She values reflection, curiosity, and continuous learning as essential capabilities for executives navigating complexity and uncertainty.
In her role at the Canada School of Public Service, Lisa focuses on executive leadership development. She supports current and aspiring public service executives in strengthening their leadership practice, cultivating strategic judgment, and leading with purpose, integrity, and impact in service of Canadians.
Expertise
- Human-centred leadership
- Change management
- Policy development
- Evaluation
- Data and research
Credentials
- PhD, Sociology and Social Justice, University of Windsor
- Master of Arts, Criminology and Sociology, University of Windsor
- Bachelor of Arts with Honours, Criminology, University of Windsor
- Executive Leadership Development Program for EX04 to EX05, Canada School of Public Service
- Certificate in Public Sector Leadership and Governance, University of Ottawa
