Eric Costen
Affiliation
Acting Deputy Minister, Health Canada
Committee membership
Governing Council (Ex-officio)
Biography
Eric Costen has assumed the role of acting Deputy Minister of Health since May 2024. He has been Associate Deputy Minister of Health since June 26, 2023.
Prior to his appointment as Associate Deputy Minister, he was Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Industry Sector, at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) where he provided advice on the government's industrial policy and on a broad range of Canadian industries in order to enhance innovation, competitiveness, inclusivity, and growth.
Before joining ISED Eric held a variety of executive roles at Health Canada. Between 2019-2021 he was Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, where he was responsible for controlled drugs and substances policies and programs, including overdose crisis response activities. Between 2016-2019 he was Director General, Cannabis Legalization and Regulation, and between 2013-2016 he was Executive Director of the Office of Medical Cannabis. Eric started his public service career in 2003 working in the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, including as Director, Mental Health and Addiction (2006-2011). He holds a Bachelor's (Honour) degree from the University of Ottawa and Trent University. He lives in Arnprior, Ontario, with his partner and four sons.
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