Jill McKnight (born May 31, 1979) is a Canadian politician and former business owner who operated two local businesses and served as Executive Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce. A member of the Liberal Party of Canada, McKnight was elected Member of Parliament for the riding of Delta in the 2025 Canadian federal election. 
Early life.
Jill McKnight was born on May 31, 1979, and raised in Delta, British Columbia, by her parents, Tracey and Bill McKnight. She graduated from South Delta Secondary School and later earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Business from the University of Victoria. 
McKnight is married to her husband Stephen Smith and they live in Ladner.
Career.
A lifelong entrepreneur, McKnight grew up in family businesses. For 28 years, Jill and her family were the owners of South Coast Casuals in Ladner, a ladies clothing boutique. For over 20 years, she worked with the Ladner Village Market, bringing together the local producers and makers with customers from all over the Lower Mainland and B.C.. These experiences provided her with invaluable lessons in listening to people, building relationships, and understanding the challenges of entrepreneurship. 
Prior to entering federal politics, McKnight was the Executive Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce where she advocated for local businesses and residents. She was appointed to this role following her years of volunteering with the Ladner Business Association, including five years as the President, reflecting her strong ties to the local business community. 
She has also been a dedicated community volunteer and advocate, supporting local businesses, organizing large community events, and facilitating collaborative relationships to strength the community. Her fundraising activities have helped raise over $250K for various community causes, including the Ladner Business Association, the Delta Hospital Foundation, the BC Cancer Foundation, and Dress for Success. 
In recognition of her outstanding service, McKnight has received several honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Queen’s Jubilee Award, and Delta’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award.
Political career.
On May 13, 2025, McKnight was named Minister of Veteran Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence in the 30th Canadian Ministry, headed by Mark Carney.