“As a former employee of PEI Business Development and Enterprise PEI, Allan has a good understanding and background of the agency,” said Currie. “If we are to continue with the successful promotion of Island business, we need an experienced CEO who has a clear understanding of the challenges that lie ahead, especially in the development of new sectors.”

“I have enjoyed my last fifteen years in the provincial government and I am looking forward to the new role,” Smith said. “Thanks to the work of PEIBDI, the province has achieved significant economic growth and diversity. Our challenge over the next few years is to continue our strategic support for business in areas with strong potential for growth.”

Allan graduated from the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) with a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1986 and later received a diploma in Public Administration from UPEI.

He has worked with the Canadian National Railways in Moncton, New Brunswick, the PEI Department of Agriculture and the PEI Department of Development. In 1996, he accepted a position as account executive with the Aerospace Division at Enterprise PEI and was later appointed as the director of New Business Development with PEI Business Development (formerly Enterprise PEI). Since 2000, Allan has held the position of chief executive officer (CEO) with Technology PEI.

Technology PEI is the lead agency representing the Province of Prince Edward Island in the development of the technology industry in Prince Edward Island. The Provincial crown corporation executes this responsibility by providing a leadership role in the development, use and adoption of technology for business and communities in Prince Edward Island.

PEI Business Development is the lead business development corporation for the Province. The agency works to solicit and support investment in PEI; actively supports small businesses; encourages entrepreneurship and investment risk sharing; provides leadership in trade development and export initiatives of the province; and promotes PEI as a competitive place to do business.

For more information about PEI Business Development, please visit the website at www.peibusinessdevelopment.com.