Key Influencer – Sam Blackett – Press Secretary to the Premier

Source: LinkedIn

Sam Blackett has served as Press Secretary to the Premier of Alberta since June 2023, immediately after the most recent provincial election. In this role, he’s responsible for managing media relations, shaping executive messaging, and supporting strategic communications at the most senior level of the provincial government. As a top communications advisor in the Premier’s Office, Blackett plays a central role in turning government priorities into clear, consistent public narratives.

Prior to his current role, Blackett served as Press Secretary to then Minister of Advanced Education Demetrios Nicolaides, where he managed announcements, media engagements, and messaging within a complex government portfolio. His promotion into the Premier’s Office reflects both his growing influence within government communications and the trust placed in him to manage high-stakes messaging at the centre of executive decision-making.

In addition to these roles in government, Blackett was Campaign Manager for Nicolaides in the battleground Calgary-Bow constituency during the 2023 provincial election. The campaign was a success with Nicolaides defeating NDP candidate and longtime Calgary Councillor, Druh Farrell, by 385 votes.

Earlier in his career, Blackett served as a Communications Officer with the United Conservative Government Caucus, supporting local and constituency communications for UCP MLAs and Ministers.

Blackett holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing from the University of Alberta. His professional strengths include media relations, strategic communications, team leadership, and digital media management.