After a competitive months-long recruitment process, the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) has announced Ben Campbell as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Campbell, a chartered professional accountant, has served as NDIT's chief financial officer since 2021 and assumed the role of Interim CEO on Jan. 1, following the departure of former CEO Joel McKay.
He is a lifelong resident of Northern BC and brings extensive experience in both the public and private sectors.
Northern Development is an independent, non-profit corporation that promote economic growth in Northern BC through investments in grassroots, community-led projects.
The appointment is effective immediately.
A graduate of the University of Northern British Columbia with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Campbell also attended the College of New Caledonia. Before joining NDIT, he worked as an Audit Senior Manager at KPMG, where he gained valuable experience working with local and Indigenous governments, non-profits, and school districts across the province.
In addition to his professional work at NDIT, Campbell is an active volunteer, serving on the boards of Community Futures Fraser-Fort George and the College of Complementary Health Professionals, where he holds the roles of treasurer and finance committee chair, respectively. He also mentors students pursuing their CPA designation.
During his tenure as CFO, Campbell was instrumental in growing NDIT's partner programs, including advances in the Connecting British Columbia and Northern Passenger Transportation Service programs. His leadership also extended to overseeing the implementation of technology and security systems that have enhanced the organization’s efficiency and protection.
"We are pleased to welcome Ben as the new CEO of Northern Development Initiative Trust," said Northern Development board chair Margo Wagner. "Having served as our CFO, Ben brings deep financial expertise, a strong understanding of our organization, and a passion for supporting northern communities. We are confident that under his leadership, Northern Development will continue to drive economic growth and opportunity across the region."
In a statement, Campbell expressed his excitement about the new role.
"I am truly honoured to step into the role of CEO at Northern Development Initiative Trust," he said. "This organization has a strong legacy of driving economic growth and supporting communities across Northern BC, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team and partners to continue making a meaningful impact."
