Prime Minister names Mark Wiseman as Canada’s next Ambassador to the United States

Ottawa, Ontario — Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the appointment of Mark Wiseman as Canada’s next Ambassador to the United States, a key diplomatic post as Ottawa prepares for high-stakes trade and security discussions with its closest ally.

Wiseman will assume the role upon the presentation of his credentials, with his term set to begin on February 15, 2026, succeeding Kirsten Hillman, who has served as Canada’s Ambassador to Washington during a period of significant global economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Extensive experience in finance and Canada–U.S. relations

Wiseman brings more than three decades of experience across law, finance, and global investment. He previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, chaired the board of the Alberta Investment Management Corporation, and currently sits on the Prime Minister’s Council on Canada-U.S. Relations.

I’m pleased to announce that Mark Wiseman will become Canada’s next Ambassador to the United States. Mark has a deep understanding of both countries’ economies, financial markets, and institutions. As a core member of our negotiating team, I know he will advance the interests of…

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) December 22, 2025

The federal government says Wiseman’s background positions him to advance Canada’s economic and strategic interests in Washington at a time when cross-border trade, supply chains, and continental security are under renewed pressure.

Once in office, Wiseman will support government priorities including secure borders, strengthened trade and investment ties, and cooperation with the United States on shared global challenges.

Focus on upcoming CUSMA review

Wiseman’s appointment comes as Canada prepares for the first joint review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, scheduled to begin in 2026. The review process will determine whether the agreement is extended for another 16-year term.

CUSMA governs more than $3.5 billion in daily trade between Canada and the United States, with over 85 per cent of bilateral trade remaining tariff-free. The federal government has already conducted public consultations with Canadian workers and businesses to inform its negotiating position ahead of the review.

Prime Minister thanks outgoing ambassador

Prime Minister Carney also expressed gratitude to Hillman for her tenure as ambassador, crediting her with strengthening bilateral ties and defending Canadian interests during a volatile period for global trade and diplomacy.

In announcing Wiseman’s appointment, Carney said the incoming ambassador brings “immense experience, extensive contacts, and deep commitment” at a pivotal moment in Canada-U.S. relations.

Continuity in a critical diplomatic role

The Ambassador to the United States is Canada’s most strategically important diplomatic posting, responsible for managing relations with its largest trading partner and closest ally. Wiseman’s appointment signals continuity in Canada’s approach to economic diplomacy as negotiations over trade, investment, and continental security intensify.

SOURCE: PMO

Follow GTA Today on social media for more local news and updates. #GTAToday