Chief George Arcand Jr.: A Visionary Leader Fueling Community Progress Through Partnership

 Chief George Arcand Jr., Chief of the Alexander First Nation and Chairman of the Alexander Business Corporation (ABC), has spent his career shaping a vision of Indigenous-led economic development rooted in trust, transparency, and long-term partnerships with industry. This year, the Canadian Fuels Association (CFA) proudly recognizes his leadership with the 2025 Community Champion Award. 

With a career spanning more than 40 years—including roles in the federal government, former CEO of Fort McKay First Nation, and Grand Chief of Treaty 6—Chief Arcand has consistently championed Indigenous self-sufficiency through strategic collaboration. At every stage, he has upheld the belief that economic sovereignty and strong partnerships are key to long-term community well-being. 

At the heart of Chief Arcand’s leadership philosophy is a simple, yet powerful belief: Indigenous communities can—and should—be full partners in shaping Canada’s energy future.  

“We’re not asking for more,” he says. “We’re asking to be part of the opportunity that already exists, and to show that we can deliver value, competitively and reliably.” 

When he returned to lead Alexander First Nation, Chief Arcand brought with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision for sustainable, community-led economic development. Under his guidance, the Nation established the Alexander Business Corporation (ABC), a vehicle to secure a stronger economic future, develop local capacity, and create meaningful opportunities for future generations. 

Today, ABC includes 14 businesses across fuels, energy services, manufacturing, and construction. But the goal has never been growth for its own sake. Up to 50% of profits are returned to the Nation to support essential programs in housing, education, mental health, and infrastructure.  

“Everything we do is about building something lasting our people can rely on,” says Chief Arcand. “We’re not just doing business—we’re building a future.” 

He goes on to explain that changing industry perceptions has taken time.  

“There’s this belief that working with First Nations means it’ll cost more, but we’ve shown that our businesses are not only competitive—they’re capable, scalable, and strategic.” 

That mindset has inspired a culture of transparency and accountability within ABC, one that reflects Chief Arcand’s leadership.  

“When companies work with us, they can see exactly how their partnerships benefit the community,” says Ian Arcand, Chief Executive Officer for the ABC. “Ultimately, it’s about achieving real outcomes that build lasting strength for our Nation.”  

That commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed by industry partners. Frits Klap, Senior Vice President – Canada, Products and Refining at Shell, shared:

“Chief Arcand’s leadership exemplifies what true partnership looks like—built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for sustainable growth. At Shell, we’re proud to work alongside the Alexander First Nation, whose approach to economic development is creating lasting value for their community and helping shape the future of energy in Canada.”

That impact extends beyond Alexander. Chief Arcand’s collaborative approach has helped shift how industry players engage with Indigenous communities across Alberta. Requests for Proposals now increasingly include Indigenous participation and ownership criteria—something that didn’t exist just a few years ago. 

“Other Nations are now launching their own ventures because they’ve seen what’s possible,” says Kris Vanderburg, ABC’s Chief Operating Officer. “It goes beyond competition—it’s about raising the bar for everyone.” 

For Chief Arcand, the recognition from CFA is deeply meaningful—not just as a personal milestone, but as validation of a broader movement.

“This award tells us that people are noticing,” he says. “They see that what we’re building works. And more than that—they see that it’s worth doing.” 

Through steady leadership, bold vision, and a deep commitment to his people, Chief George Arcand Jr. continues to set a powerful example of how Indigenous communities and industry can succeed—together.