CIJA names Marley Gillies as Senior Director for the Alberta Region

(Calgary) – The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), the advocacy agent of Jewish Federations of Canada–UIA, has announced that Marley Gillies has joined the organization as Senior Director, Alberta.

Marking the establishment of CIJA’s first office in the province, Marley will work closely with the leadership teams of the Calgary Jewish Federation and the Jewish Federation of Edmonton to strengthen and expand Jewish advocacy efforts across Alberta. CIJA’s immediate priorities in the region include deepening relationships with elected officials and decision-makers, advancing community security initiatives, and driving coordinated action to confront antisemitism at all levels of government.

“Home to more than 15,000 Jews whose roots in the province stretch back to the mid-19th century, Alberta’s Jewish community has made enduring contributions to law, business, the arts, philanthropy, and public life,” said Noah Shack, CEO, CIJA. “The opening of CIJA’s first Alberta office will significantly enhance our advocacy and help build a brighter future for our community and for all Albertans. This milestone is also a lasting legacy of Al Osten z”l, whose generosity and commitment made it possible.”

Marley Gillies has extensive experience in municipal politics, public affairs, and community engagement. She has worked at the intersection of policy, communications, and operations, supporting elected officials, candidates, and organizations in navigating complex political environments and delivering meaningful results.

Most recently, Marley served as a Mayoral Campaign Advisor, acting as lead strategist for a competitive citywide campaign. She oversaw campaign planning and execution, advised on messaging and media relations, managed cross-functional teams, and developed data-driven outreach strategies to strengthen voter and community engagement.

Previously, Marley was the Executive Advisor in the Ward 1 City Councillor’s Office at Calgary’s City Hall, where she provided strategic guidance on policy, communications, and constituent relations. She managed day-to-day office operations, led policy research and briefing development, coordinated stakeholder engagement, and directed public communications and crisis response efforts.

The Jewish communities of Calgary and Edmonton have long been engaged in local advocacy. The establishment of a permanent CIJA presence in Alberta will strengthen their collective ability to respond to emerging challenges while proactively advancing priorities that benefit these communities, the province, and Canada as a whole.