Kelly Regan is a government and communications consultant and commentator, a senior public-sector and policy leader with more than fifteen years of experience shaping public policy, building relationships and working at the most senior levels of government in Nova Scotia.
Kelly brings extensive experience managing system-level change, overseeing public resources, and making decisions in environments where accountability, public trust, and context matter. Known for sound judgment, clear communication, and a leadership style that is reflective, collaborative, and grounded in experience, Kelly is deeply committed to equity and reconciliation.
Kelly was first elected in 2009 as the Member for Bedford - Birch Cove, and served as Opposition Caucus Chair and Opposition Whip, as well as critic for Education, Labour and Advanced Education, and Status of Women.
She then was elected for two terms as the Member for Bedford, serving in a number of cabinet roles, including Deputy Premier, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education, Minister of Community Services, and Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. She was a Member of the Treasury and Policy Board Cabinet Committee.
ln her final term, Kelly returned to Opposition benches. There, she served the riding of Bedford Basin, chaired the Legislature's Public Accounts Committee, and served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition, as well as critic for Finance, Labour and Advanced Education, Status of Women, and Health. She retired from elected office in November 2024.
Prior to entering politics, Kelly worked for twenty years as a television news producer, director, writer and reporter.
Kelly graduated with an Honours Degree in English / Legal Studies Option (Co-operative Program) from the University of Waterloo in 1984.
She recently joined the Community Advisory Board of the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia.
She was awarded the King Charles Il Coronation Medal for Public Service in 2025 and the Queen Elizabeth Il Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.
