About Jennifer

Jennifer Deleskie is Vice President, Business Development & Public Affairs for Membertou Development Corporation and serves as Economic Advisor to Chief Terry Paul. Over the past 17 years, Jennifer has played a key role in advancing Membertou’s economic growth, securing more than $150 million in federal and provincial funding and helping expand and diversify its business portfolio.

Jennifer has been instrumental in some of Membertou’s most significant investments and acquisitions, including the $1 billion Clearwater Seafoods transaction, where Membertou led seven Mi’kmaq communities in acquiring 50% ownership of the company, and the acquisition of Newdock in partnership with Qalipu First Nation, strengthening Indigenous participation in Canada’s marine and shipbuilding sector.

Most recently, Jennifer was involved in Membertou’s acquisition, alongside Horizon Naval Engineering, of Genoa Design International, one of Canada’s leading marine design firms specializing in detail ship design, production engineering and 3D modelling. The investment further expands Membertou’s presence in Canada’s growing marine, defence and shipbuilding industries.

Jennifer is also helping advance Membertou’s involvement in major infrastructure, renewable energy and AI-related projects. She recently participated in Canada’s inaugural Investment Summit, supporting several major projects included in the Summit deal book, including Novaporte, Newdock, Wind West and EverWind. These initiatives represent significant opportunities for Indigenous equity participation while positioning Cape Breton and Atlantic Canada for new investment and long-term economic growth.

A proud Cape Breton University alumna, Jennifer also acts as an economic development advisor to Cape Breton University and currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation. Born and raised in Cape Breton, she remains deeply committed to strengthening the Island’s economy and creating opportunities for future generations.

In 2026, Jennifer was named one of Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business in Atlantic Canada, recognizing her leadership and contributions to business and economic development across the region.