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The NWMO appoints new Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer

The NWMO appoints new Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer Leigh Ann Layno.

April 30, 2025

Toronto, Ont.

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The NWMO appoints new Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer Leigh Ann Layno.

The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has appointed Leigh Ann Layno as Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer. Ms. Layno joins the NWMO’s executive team as the organization continues to advance our mandate for the safe, long-term management of Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste.

"Canada is one of the global leaders in developing safe nuclear waste management solutions, and to continue this leadership, we’re committed to hiring and retaining the best talent in our industry," said Laurie Swami, President and CEO of the NWMO. "The appointment of Ms. Layno as Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer will ensure our organization has the people and culture we need as we move into new phases of work and continue delivering on our mandate."

Previously the Director of Human Resources and Labour Relations at the NWMO, Ms. Layno will play a key role in leading organizational change programs. She will be responsible for all human resources functions, ensuring the delivery of Canada’s plan by maintaining the NWMO’s exceptional workforce, which includes experts in disciplines ranging from geoscience and information technology to finance and engineering.

"The NWMO is an evolving organization addressing a critical issue that impacts all Canadians,” said Ms. Layno. “I am personally committed to fostering a workplace that retains and attracts world-class professionals from diverse backgrounds as we continue to expand.”

“The NWMO exemplifies not only exceptional skill and expertise but also a dedication to caring for the environment, respecting people and advancing our Reconciliation goals. This commitment reflects the highest standards of ethics and culture, which I am proud to nurture and further strengthen," said Ms. Layno.

Biography

Leigh Ann Layno is the Vice-President of Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer at the NWMO. Ms. Layno oversees programs related to employee and labour relations, recruitment and talent management, total rewards, ethics and wellness.

Ms. Layno is a Certified Human Resources Leader with over 25 years of experience across multiple sectors, specializing in labour relations within multi-union environments. Prior to joining the NWMO in 2017, she held several leadership roles, including Director of Human Resources at the National Ballet of Canada and Senior Industrial Relations Consultant at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

About the NWMO

 

Founded in 2002, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is a not-for-profit organization tasked with the safe, long-term management of Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste, in a manner that protects people and the environment for generations to come.

 

The NWMO has been guided for more than 20 years by a dedicated team of world-class scientists, engineers and Indigenous Knowledge Holders who are developing innovative and collaborative solutions for nuclear waste management.

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