Announcing the 2025 Indigenous Resource Leadership Award Winner: Steve Saddleback

Steve Saddleback

Partner, Opimoyaso Group

We’re excited to announce Steve Saddleback as the recipient of the 2025 Indigenous Resource Leadership Award!

Steve Saddleback, a member of the Samson Cree Nation in Maskwacis, Alberta, is a recognized leader in advancing Indigenous economic participation across Canada. He is a Partner at the 100% Indigenous-owned Opimoyaso Group and serves as the Senior Advisor for External Relations for the First Nations Major Projects Coalition.

With a background spanning finance, real estate, government relations, and non-profit leadership, Steve has played key roles—including co-chairing the First Nations Site Rehabilitation Program and partnering in an oil and gas construction firm. He is an active board member of organizations such as Renfrew Educational Services, the Clean Resource Innovation Network, Calgary’s Hydrogen Hub, and Equitable Origin. He serves on the Alberta’s Energy Future Initiative Leadership Council. He also holds the ICD.D designation.

As part of this historic 90th Anniversary celebration, ACR is proud to honour Steve Saddleback with the Indigenous Resource Leadership Award, recognizing his leadership in strengthening relationships between Indigenous communities and Alberta’s resource sector. Through his work advancing meaningful engagement, economic opportunities, and cultural understanding, Steve has helped build pathways for greater Indigenous participation in responsible resource development.

We invite you to join us at the 2026 ACR Conference & Awards Banquet as we celebrate Steve’s achievements alongside industry leaders, partners, and peers from across the province. Tickets are limited — secure your place and be part of this milestone evening honouring leadership, collaboration, and the future of Alberta’s resource sector.