Deron Bilous is a results-driven executive with extensive experience leading Western Canada’s largest economic development ministry. From negotiating national and international trade agreements, to securing major domestic and international investments in the energy, petrochemical, life sciences, agriculture, forestry, technology, and artificial intelligence sectors. His deep insights into, and relationships with, government and industry leaders make him the “go-to” person to drive client outcomes. 

Deron served three terms in the Alberta Legislature, both in opposition and government. In addition to being appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs and Service Alberta – he created the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (EDT) to attract international investment, leverage science and innovation, and support the Alberta business ecosystem. During his tenure, he developed important working relationships with senior industry and economic development leaders across Alberta and around the world.  

He designed tax credits that delivered a 3:1 return on investment, supported the creation of hundreds of new jobs, and acted as a catalyst for Alberta companies to continue to grow locally while entering new markets at home and abroad. 

As a creator of Invest Alberta, Deron oversaw the development of Cavendish Farms’ new $350 million production facility; a $250 million production facility expansion at Champion Petfoods; a new $40 million Amazon fulfillment centre; and more than 50 new companies relocating to Alberta in 2016 alone. 

Under Deron’s term, he negotiated new international partnership agreements – most notably, one between Guangdong, China and Alberta. This led to Alberta’s largest-ever trade mission with more than 85 Alberta businesses and associations and contributed to a $1.8 billion trade increase with Asia between 2015-2019. Under his tenure, Alberta’s 12 other international trade offices attracted more than $1.5 billion in trade and investment.  

Whether they are looking for support with strategy, execution, connecting with the right officials, or navigating complex government processes, Deron delivers the outcomes clients need the most.  

Deron recently completed his MBA at Royal Roads University with a focus on executive management. He holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. He also has extensive experience working and living abroad, where he became conversationally fluent in Mandarin, Spanish, and French.