Director and CEO

Joseph Fraser (he/him)

Joseph (Joe) Fraser was appointed Director and CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission on April 19, 2021, bringing with him more than twenty years of experience and leadership in human rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Prior to joining the Commission, Joe spent three years with the Nova Scotia Community College as Director of Human Rights and Equity Services where he led the College’s work in accessibility, conflict resolution, equity, inclusion, human rights, mental wellness, and sexual violence.

Joe began his career working with adults with disabilities, including as Executive Director of Highland Visions Society. He then joined the Province of Nova Scotia and worked in various roles, including Executive Officer of the Labour Standards Tribunal, Appeal Commissioner with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal, and Director of Respectful Workplace & Corporate Diversity with the Public Service Commission.

Joe is a graduate of Cape Breton University and Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law. He has a designation as a Certified Diversity Executive. Joe also holds certificates in executive leadership development, conflict management, and Mi’kmaw studies.

Joe has spoken at a number of provincial and national conferences and has served as a volunteer director on various boards.

A proud member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Joe lives in Bedford with his husband and is the parent of two adult children.