Pictou County Partnership appoints new CEO

PICTOU, N.S. — The Board of Directors of the Pictou County Partnership has announced the appointment of Wade Tibbo as its new Chief Executive Officer.

A Pictou County resident and the Partnership’s former Director of Business Development & Innovation, Wade Tibbo helped establish the Micro Loan Program in collaboration with the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce and East Coast Credit Union, along with the Newcomer Business Navigation program and the ELEVATE program, empowering small businesses to reach new heights.

“The board established a committee to search for a permanent CEO for the organization immediately following Scott Ferguson’s resignation. We quickly realized that we had the best candidate already in the interim position. I could not be happier with the progress of this team over the past two years,” said Ryan Fraser, Chair of the Pictou Count Partnership Board of Directors. “I look forward to watching the continued momentum they have created as a team. The appointment of Wade to the CEO position will add further stability to the organization and will ensure the continuity of the impressive work being accomplished in the community,”

His focus on regional initiatives has furthered development in critical sectors such as aquaculture, bioeconomy and renewable energy, as well as reduced barriers to economic growth such as housing.

“As a father of two young boys and the husband of a dedicated nurse, my commitment to Pictou County’s growth is personal,” said Tibbo. “My wife’s family’s roots are here, and my own upbringing in neighbouring Guysborough County deepens my resolve to see our region flourish. I am excited to leverage my experience and passion to drive the Pictou County Partnership forward, ensuring we remain the hub of collaboration toward economic prosperity.

“Our goal is to be the cornerstone of economic development in Pictou County. With our central location to major Atlantic hubs and home to educational institutions, manufacturing giants, and global companies, we are poised for growth in innovative and sustainable sectors,” added Tibbo. “I look forward to working with our municipal, provincial and federal partners, economic development ecosystem partners, and our incredible team of staff to build a more prosperous Pictou County.”

For Nicole LeBlanc, the Chair, LOC and councillor for Trenton, Tibbo’s appointment comes at the right time as the region navigates the evolving economic landscape.

“His deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in Pictou County, coupled with his commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, aligns perfectly with our vision,” she said, “His leadership has already proven instrumental in fostering collaboration across our diverse communities, including Pictou Landing First Nation and various municipal units, as well as with the Province of Nova Scotia. We are confident that his guidance will be invaluable in our collective pursuit of a vibrant and prosperous future for Pictou County,”