Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.
Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. For more information visit bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
More about the role:
At Burson, we help organizations engage government, shape policy, and drive change that impacts millions of Canadians. We are looking for a Public Affairs Consultant to join our Ottawa office, supporting clients across sectors such as healthcare, technology, financial and professional services, energy, infrastructure, and transportation.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with some of Canada’s most influential organizations while advising on public affairs strategies, stakeholder engagement, and government relations. The ideal candidate has a passion for politics and policy, strong writing and research skills, and the ability to translate complex issues into clear, persuasive communications.
What you’ll do:
- Supporting the development and execution of integrated public affairs and government relations strategies that influence public policy and drive client objectives.
- Monitoring federal political, legislative, and regulatory developments, providing timely insights and strategic recommendations.
- Engaging directly with government officials, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, helping clients build relationships and advocate for key priorities.
- Conducting policy research and analysis on a range of issues, providing briefings and recommendations to support client strategies.
- Preparing stakeholder maps, briefing notes, submissions, reports, and presentations tailored for various audiences.
- Managing and coordinating meetings, consultations, and public affairs events to support client engagement efforts.
- Advising clients on messaging, positioning, and engagement tactics to effectively communicate with government and key stakeholders.
- Tracking and measuring the impact of public affairs programs, ensuring alignment with client goals.
Experience that contributes to success:
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in public affairs, government relations, political roles, or strategic communications (agency experience is a plus).
- Strong understanding of federal government decision-making, parliamentary procedures, and regulatory processes.
- Exceptional research, writing, and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear, compelling narratives.
- Experience working with or within government, industry associations, advocacy groups, or public institutions.
- Bilingualism (French and English) is a strong asset.
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple clients or projects.
- A proactive, creative, and solutions-oriented mindset, with a keen interest in public policy and stakeholder engagement.
- A strong network in government, industry, or advocacy sectors is an advantage.
Why Join Us?
At Burson, you’ll be part of a collaborative and dynamic team that is at the forefront of public affairs in Canada. We offer:
- The opportunity to work on high-impact public affairs and government relations campaigns.
- Exposure to a diverse range of industries and policy areas.
- Career growth and mentorship from leading public affairs experts.
- A flexible and supportive work environment that values innovation and teamwork.
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Our vision is for Burson to be the leading ‘academy company’ for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues come to elevate their skills, expand their networks, and ultimately, produce the best solutions for today’s leading brands. Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our robust benefits and people programs, which include professional development opportunities, mentorship programs with industry leaders, a vibrant and inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation and packages designed to reward and retain top talent. We invest in our people because we believe their success is our success.
At Burson, we’re an agency of learn-it-alls. We recognize that the things we do best, creativity and communications, require a level of nuanced understanding. That’s why it’s imperative for us to hire extraordinarily talented people of all backgrounds and identities. Without that we can’t do the essential work of inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue, cultivating meaningful experiences, and driving innovation and creativity for our partners. Your unique point of view—your talent—is what makes you a #BursonPerson, and it’s how we deliver exceptional results for our clients, together.
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
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