Crystal Smith is the elected Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation, a role she has held since 2017.

Under Chief Smith’s leadership, the Haisla Nation have pursued sustainable economic development opportunities that are setting a new standard for how industry and Indigenous communities can work together for the benefit of society as a whole.

Of note is the Cedar LNG Project, which became the world’s first Indigenous majority-owned LNG Facility to receive environmental approvals in March 2023. It represents the single most important and advantageous opportunity to ensure economic prosperity for the Haisla Nation on their own terms. Chief Smith has also seen to fruition the establishment of the world’s first fully electric-powered tugboat fleet, under a joint venture partnership with Seaspan.

Since 2019, Crystal has been Chair of the First Nations LNG Alliance, a group committed to encouraging First Nations development of the LNG industry to provide employment and other sustainable benefits for BC’s Indigenous people. Through groups such as these, Chief Smith is dedicated to promoting the economic, social, and environmental well-being of her community and advancing reconciliation and collaboration between First Nations, industry, and government.

Ultimately, the work Chief Smith is doing today with her Council and people is two-fold: to preserve and revitalize Haisla culture, while also building a legacy of prosperity that will ensure current Haisla members and future generations can lead fulfilling and healthy lives, connected to their traditions.

She holds a Diploma in Business Administration from Coast Mountain College, a Business Skills Certificate from Thompson Rivers University, and is an Institute of Corporate Directors certified director (ICD.D).