Dr. Matthew Pike

Dr. Matthew Pike is a Nunatsiavut Inuk originally from Happy Valley–Goose Bay, Labrador, whose career has been dedicated to advancing Indigenous economic self-determination across Canada and internationally. He brings to the Board a wealth of experience in Indigenous relations, public policy, and resource development, grounded in both academic excellence and lived experience.

Matthew holds a PhD in Population Medicine from the University of Guelph, where his research explored the relationship between mining and Inuit well-being in Inuit Nunangat. He also earned a Master of Jurisprudence in Energy Law from the University of Tulsa and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Aboriginal Studies from Memorial University. His academic work has consistently focused on Indigenous social and economic issues.

Professionally, Matthew serves as Senior Manager of Indigenous Relations (North America) at Rio Tinto, where he leads the development of Indigenous leadership programs, Reconciliation initiatives, and economic development initiatives. His previous roles include leadership positions with Vale, Astaldi Canada, and Nalcor Energy, where he was instrumental in building partnerships, negotiating and implementing Impact and Benefit Agreements, and enhancing Indigenous workforce participation.

Matthew’s international experience includes a posting with the Arctic Council’s Indigenous Peoples Secretariat and leading an Inuit delegation to the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. He previously served on the NIEDB’s Expert Advisory Panel from 2020 to 2024.

Currently residing in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Matthew’s deep commitment to Indigenous prosperity and reconciliation continues to guide his contributions to the Board and beyond.