Colin Hansen was appointed Minister of Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Asia-Pacific Initiative and the Olympics on June 16, 2005.

He previously served as Minister of Finance (2004-05) and Minister of Health Services (2001-04).

Minister Hansen was first elected to the provincial legislature in 1996 to serve the constituency of Vancouver – Quilchena.

During his time in the legislature, he has also served as health critic for the Official Opposition, as well employment and investment critic, and critic for labour. He currently serves on Treasury Board, Agenda Development and the Government Caucus Committee of Natural Resources and the Economy.

Before his election to the legislature, he and his wife Laura ran a small business in Vancouver. Mr. Hansen also served as vice-president of finance and administration for the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. He has also been involved in a number of community organizations, having held such positions as director for the Vancouver-Yokohama Sister Society and chair of the Vancouver Museum board of trustees.

Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Colin has a bachelor of arts degree in political science from the University of Victoria. He and his wife have two children and live in Vancouver.