11-08-2025
Gwich'in Tribal Council appoints new interim CEO
The Gwich'in Tribal Council has appointed a new interim chief executive officer to help advise the grand chief and oversee the organization's programs.
Brenda McDonald replaces Mark Ellwood as CEO.
In a statement Sunday, the Gwich'in Tribal Council announced her appointment, writing that McDonald brings more than two decades of experience working in senior leadership with Indigenous governments, and territorial and federal agencies.
The statement says McDonald has managed multi-million dollar budgets, led diverse teams and delivered programs that strengthen local economies and support community priorities.
Previous CEO, Ellwood, took over after the board moved to dismiss Jamie Koe earlier this year.
McDonald began working as CEO immediately.