Hill Climbers

Fisheries Minister Thompson in market for new policy director, with 16 staff currently on board

The team includes Morgan McCullough as director of operations and aquaculture, policy adviser Jackson Coles, and director of communications Emily Heffernan.

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson will soon be in the market for a new director of policy, with Kurtis Layden set to exit the role this month. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Feature

BY LAURA RYCKEWAERT

September 3, 2025

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson has reeled in a number of additional staffing hires since Hill Climbers’ last check-in in June, including Kevin McHarg as director of fish management.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Fridays: Hill Life & People Newsletter

Itâ€™s all about the people: the latest on parliamentarians, political staff, and politicos.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy