More about the role:We are looking for a
Senior Consultant based in Ottawa to support client work across both
public affairs and strategic communications, with a strong emphasis on communications and stakeholder engagement.
This role is ideal for someone who understands how decisions are made in Ottawa, is comfortable engaging with government stakeholders, and can translate complex policy issues into clear, compelling communications. You will work closely with senior leaders and support clients across sectors such as healthcare, technology, financial services, energy, and
infrastructure.What You'll Be Doing - Supporting the development and execution of integrated public affairs and communications strategies, with a strong focus on messaging, positioning, and narrative development
- Leading the development of high-quality content, including briefing notes, media materials, position papers, and executive communication
- Monitoring and analyzing federal political, legislative, and regulatory developments, translating insights into actionable recommendations for client
- Supporting and, where appropriate, leading engagement with federal stakeholders, including government officials, policymakers, and industry associations
- Contributing to lobbying-related activities, including preparation of materials and ensuring alignment with federal requirement
- Building and maintaining stakeholder maps and engagement strategies to support outreach initiative
- Supporting and leading client meetings, consultations, and government engagement initiative
- Advising clients on communications strategy, stakeholder positioning, and reputation management in complex policy environment
- Tracking and evaluating the impact of public affairs and communications initiative
- Mentoring junior team members and contributing to a collaborative team environment
What You'll Need to Succeed - 5-8 years of experience in public affairs, strategic communications, government relations, or political environment
- Strong understanding of the federal government ecosystem, including parliamentary processes and decision-making structure
- Demonstrated experience in communications strategy, including content development, messaging, and stakeholder positioning
- Exposure to federal lobbying activities and government engagement strategies
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with federal stakeholder
- Excellent writing, research, and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear narrative
- Experience advising clients in regulated or policy-driven sectors (e.g., healthcare, tech, energy, financial services
- Ability to engage in lobbying activities in compliance with applicable federal regulation
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Bilingualism (French and English) is a strong asset
- A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with strong attention to detail
Why Join Us At Burson, you will:
- Work on high-impact mandates at the intersection of communications and public affair
- Engage directly with key decision-makers in Ottawa
- Be part of a collaborative, high-performing tea
- Benefit from mentorship and clear career progression opportunities
- Thrive in a flexible and supportive environment that values initiative, ownership, and impact
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