A graduate of St. Francis Xavier University’s (StFX) Information Systems program, Randy started his career in the IT sector during the dotcom boom. After completing his M.B.A at l'université de Moncton, he returned to his alma matter as a member of the Faculty of Business. During this time, he started his PhD in Business (Management) at Saint Mary’s University.  In 2013 Randy took a leave from his studies and StFX to serve in public office.  He served two terms as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA)  for Antigonish and as a member of the executive council of Nova Scotia as Minister of Environment, Finance, Health and Wellness, Justice, and Gaelic Affairs.

In 2022 Randy returned to his PhD studies and StFX’s Faculty of Business. His research focus is in the area of privacy management, with his thesis exploring privacy climate in organizations.