Province launches Debt Risk Advisory Committee

Four Islanders have been appointed to PEI’s new Debt Risk Advisory Committee to provide strategic guidance to support sound debt management practices.

The committee is the final step in the province’s debt management strategy, implemented in 2025 to improve transparency and accountability in government spending. The committee will help the province identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks associated with borrowing, investments, and other liabilities. 

“Together, these professionals bring an extraordinary breadth of experience in finance, governance and strategic leadership. Their knowledge will strengthen our ability to navigate an evolving economic landscape, support sound decision-making and help position PEI toward sustainable growth.”

- Finance and Affordability Minister Jill Burridge

The four members are:

  • Jody Sanderson
  • David Arsenault
  • Christine Heldson Tekker
  • Craig Noonan

The committee will provide advice and recommendations to the Deputy Minister of Finance and Affordability on matters related to the province’s debt and financial risk profile, such as:

  • Reviewing and advising on the annual borrowing strategy
  • Providing guidance on debt portfolio risk parameters
  • Assessing collateral management frameworks
  • Recommending investment policies related to reserve funds
  • Supporting strategic initiatives and special projects as required

The committee will also contribute to shaping policy direction to ensure that financial risks remain aligned with the province’s established fiscal anchors and broader financial goals. These goals include maintaining a net-debt-to-GDP of less than 40 per cent, and an interest-to-revenue rate of less than 7.5 per cent and the establishment of a general reserve.

Committee members will be appointed for two-year terms, with the option to renew for a second term. 

 

Media contact:
Janice Fogarty
Department of Finance and Affordability
jefogarty@gov.pe.ca

 

Backgrounder

Jody Sanderson
Jody Sanderson is a seasoned financial executive with over 25 years of experience in global banking, capital markets, investment banking, and credit risk management. With a history including overseeing more than $250 billion in capital markets activity and $100 billion in credit exposure while advising governments, financial institutions, and major corporates on sovereign funding, debt issuance, and strategic transactions, he is the Founder and CEO of Sanderson Capital Inc here in PEI.

David Arsenault 
David Arsenault is a former PEI Deputy Minister of Finance, a Chartered Accountant, and senior financial executive with extensive experience in public sector finance, fiscal management, and professional services. He is widely respected within Prince Edward Island's business and public-sector communities for his expertise in finance, governance, and strategic leadership.

Christine Helsdon Tekker
Christine Heldson Tekker is a senior capital markets and infrastructure finance executive with more than 30 years of experience in lending, credit risk, debt capital markets, and investment management. She currently serves as an expert credit consultant to OSFI, teaches finance and business ethics at York University and UPEI, contributes to several corporate and non-profit boards, and is recognized for her expertise in infrastructure finance, governance, risk management, and public policy.

Craig Noonan
Craig Noonan is Chief Executive Officer of PEI Mutual Insurance Company, one of Prince Edward Island’s longest-standing financial institutions. As CEO, Craig is responsible for the overall leadership, strategy, and financial stewardship of the organization. In 2026 he was recognized as one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs and remains actively involved in initiatives supporting the Island’s business and community sectors.                                                                                                                                  

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