United Northern Developments Limited Partnership (UNDLP) has appointed a new chief administrative officer (CAO) to support operations as the Highway 686 project advances.
Jude Ducharme, of Peace River, will support governance, operations, and provide executive leadership in administration and operations.
“This appointment is an important step in strengthening UNDLP’s leadership as we move forward on key priorities—especially our work with partners and Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors to establish the Highway 686 planning committee,” says UNDLP director/Loon River First Nation Chief Ivan Sawan in a news release.
Ducharme began work May 4.
“Jude brings the experience, professionalism, and community-minded approach we need to help UNDLP deliver on its mandate and keep our work moving forward with accountability and results.”
An announcement was made in March 2025 that the Alberta government would be funding the Highway 686 extension project. Money has been earmarked to complete engineering and get construction started on the new connector between Peerless Lake and Fort McMurray.
Ducharme will now step in the role as CAO to support UNDLP’s strategic direction through strong governance practices, responsible financial stewardship, and service-focused organizational management.
“I’m honoured to join UNDLP at this important time,” says Jude Ducharme.
“My focus will be on strengthening day-to -day operations, supporting accountable decision-making, and helping teams deliver results that reflect UNDLP’s mandate and the priorities of the communities it serves,” she adds.
Ducharme has more than 30 years of experience in administration, Indigenous engagement, governance, non-profit leadership, operations, and project delivery.
She currently serves as vice-president of the Peace River Restorative Justice Association, where she leads the organization’s Governance Sub-Committee. She is also a director with the Peace River Agricultural Society and a long-standing member of the Peace River Aboriginal Interagency Committee.
Ducharme has worked in both the public and private sectors, including as Indigenous Engagement Coordinator with Egis Canada, where she supported engagement primarily related to the Highway 686 project. Over the past three decades, she has served in a range of leadership roles with for-profit and non-profit organizations.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter