Research Associate, Federal

The Opportunity

Sussex Strategy Group is seeking a Research Associate to join our Federal practice group in our Ottawa office. The successful candidate will support clients across a range of sectors, with particular relevance to energy, infrastructure, finance, and defence. Working closely with Senior Associates and other team members, they will conduct research, analyze policy developments, and help inform public affairs strategies that advance our clients’ interests in the federal policy landscape.

This role is well suited to someone who is intellectually curious, highly analytical, and eager to build expertise in public policy, government relations, and strategic communications. While primarily focused on research and analysis in support of the Federal team, the Research Associate will also contribute to client deliverables and internal knowledge development.

Ways You Can Contribute

• Conduct research and analysis on federal policy, regulatory developments, stakeholder positions, and political trends.
• Monitor legislative, parliamentary, committee, and media activity relevant to client priorities.
• Prepare briefing notes, research summaries, issue scans, backgrounders, and other client-facing materials.
• Support the development of public affairs strategies, advocacy materials, and stakeholder engagement plans.
• Track developments across key policy areas, with particular interest in energy, infrastructure, finance, and defence.
• Contribute to internal knowledge management by organizing research, maintaining issue trackers, and supporting team updates.
• Assist with the preparation of materials for meetings, presentations, and client engagements.
• Stay current on emerging issues, policy developments, and broader trends affecting the federal public affairs environment.

Who You Are

• University degree in political science, public policy, economics, business, law, or another relevant field. Graduate studies are considered an asset.
• 0 to 3 years of relevant experience in research, public policy, government, politics, public affairs, or a related environment.
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information clearly and concisely.
• Knowledge of Canadian federal policy, regulatory frameworks, and key stakeholders, with a particular interest in energy, infrastructure, finance, and defence.
• Strong attention to detail and a high standard of accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and adapt to evolving client needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and professional approach.
• Self-motivated, intellectually curious, and eager to learn.

Pay Grade: $50,000 - 70,000

Our Recruitment Process

AI Screening: This position does not utilize AI tools as part of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and efficient evaluation of applicants.

Vacancy Status: This posting is for a new role within our organization.

Interview Notification: Applicants selected for interviews will be notified of hiring decisions within 45 days following their final interview.

Record Retention: All recruitment-related materials will be retained for a minimum of 3 years.

About Us

Sussex offers exceptional advisory services and empowers businesses, corporations, associations, and non-profit organizations to navigate complex public, government, and regulatory landscapes. Our expertise lies in developing and implementing comprehensive public affairs plans that shape public opinion, influence government policy, and advocate for our clients' interests.

Since our founding in 1998, we have proudly remained Canadian-owned and independently operated. With offices in Toronto and Ottawa and a network of accomplished affiliates nationwide, Sussex possesses unparalleled knowledge of government affairs, strategic communications, and digital advocacy to help achieve your business goals. At Sussex, we don't just understand the challenges our clients face, we embrace them as opportunities for growth and transformation.

Sussex is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Our hiring process and decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We strive to create a workplace that values diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please inform us of your requirements. We will work with you to provide accommodations based on your individual needs to ensure a fair and accessible process.