BackAfter a decade as British Columbia’s Ombudsperson, Jay Chalke has announced his decision to step down from his role in early 2026. Chalke, the longest-serving Ombudsperson in the province’s history, has been a steadfast advocate for fairness and accountability in public administration.
“This was not a decision I made lightly,” Chalke said. “Serving as BC’s Ombudsperson has been the honour of my career, and I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together at this office. But after 10 years, I believe the time is right for new perspectives and fresh leadership to continue our important work in ensuring fairness in public administration.”
Chalke emphasized that his decision is driven by his belief that leadership transitions bring new energy and ideas, vital for the continued growth and innovation of the office. “I have always believed that new perspectives are essential to the health of any organization. I have every confidence that the Office of the Ombudsperson will continue to thrive under new leadership.”
Under Chalke’s leadership, the Office of the Ombudsperson carried out a number of systemic investigations that led to lasting program reforms and improvements to public administration. Notable reports include:
- Fairness in a Changing Climate: A first-of-its-kind report examining how government disaster supports must be more accessible, equitable, and adaptable in the face of extreme weather.
- A Bid for Fairness and Working Within the Rules: Reports highlighting how rigid or outdated government practices can disproportionately harm vulnerable British Columbians, including a person who lost their home due to $10,000 in property tax debt.
- Under Inspection, Committed to Change, and Alone: A series of reports that strengthened protections for people in provincial custody, including adults in correctional centres, involuntary patients in psychiatric facilities, and youth in custody.
Chalke also oversaw the implementation of new responsibilities for the Ombudsperson under BC’s Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA), which provides secure channels for public employees to report serious workplace wrongdoing. The need for this legislation was highlighted in the office’s 2017 report Misfire, into the termination of health ministry employees. In response, the Legislature passed the province’s first broad whistleblower protection law for the provincial public sector.
The process to appoint a new Ombudsperson will begin shortly, led by the Legislature. Chalke will continue to serve in the role until early 2026, ensuring a smooth transition.
“I am grateful to the dedicated team at the Office of the Ombudsperson and to the people of British Columbia for the trust they have placed in me. I look forward to supporting the transition and watching this office continue to make a difference.”
Source: British Columbia Ombudsperson, Canada
