Policy Analyst

Do you want your research to influence real decisions?

Are you the kind of person who naturally asks why?

Do you enjoy exploring complex policy issues, analyzing data and turning evidence into practical solutions?

Do you want your work to extend beyond academic journals and internal reports to inform governments, influence public debate and help shape Canada's future?

If so, we'd like to meet you.

The Canada West Foundation is one of Canada's leading independent, non-partisan, evidence-based public policy think tanks. For more than 50 years, we've worked with governments, industry, Indigenous leaders, academics and communities to develop practical solutions to Western Canada's most important public policy challenges.

We don't simply produce research. We produce reputation-enhancing and influence-building public policy that informs decision-makers, strengthens public dialogue and advances practical solutions for Western Canada—and Canada as a whole.

As our next Policy Analyst, you'll help shape the ideas, research and policy recommendations that contribute to stronger public policy and a more prosperous future.

What You’ll Do

• Research the issues that matter
• Conduct rigorous, evidence-based research on the public policy issues shaping Western Canada's future, including trade, energy, natural resources, agriculture, transportation, infrastructure, labour markets, productivity, fiscal policy and economic competitiveness.
• Analyze legislation, policy proposals, economic trends and quantitative data to identify opportunities, risks and practical policy solutions.
• Identify emerging issues where the Foundation can provide timely, independent policy leadership.

Turn evidence into influence

• Prepare reports, policy briefs, discussion papers, presentations, briefing notes and commentary that communicate complex ideas with clarity and credibility.
• Translate research into practical insights that help governments, business leaders, Indigenous organizations and stakeholders make better decisions.
• Contribute to research that enhances the Foundation's reputation while influencing policy conversations across Western Canada and Canada.

Engage with leaders

• Work alongside elected officials, senior public servants, business executives, Indigenous organizations, academics and community leaders.
• Participate in consultations, conferences, interviews and policy roundtables to strengthen research and build trusted relationships.
• Represent the Canada West Foundation professionally while contributing to meaningful public policy discussions.

Work as one team

• Collaborate with colleagues across Research, Strategic Communications and Strategic Partnerships to maximize the reach and impact of the Foundation's work.
• Support flagship research projects, public events, media commentary and strategic initiatives that advance the Foundation's mission.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is intellectually curious, analytical and motivated by evidence rather than ideology.

The ideal candidate will bring many of the following

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, political science, public administration or a related discipline.
• Three to seven years of experience in policy research, government, consulting, academia, a think tank or a related field.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent writing, editing and communication abilities.
• Experience interpreting quantitative and qualitative data.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Confidence working with senior leaders and diverse stakeholders.
• A collaborative approach and a desire to contribute to a high-performing team.

Experience with statistical analysis, economic modelling or data visualization would be considered an asset.

Why This Role Matters

Western Canada is a driving force behind Canada's prosperity. The public policy decisions made today will shape the region's competitiveness, investment, productivity and quality of life for decades to come.

The Canada West Foundation exists to ensure Western Canada's priorities—backed by its economic strength—help shape national policy through independent research, bold solutions and strategic engagement.

Your work won't disappear into a filing cabinet. It will inform governments. It will strengthen public debate. It will help business leaders make better decisions.

It will contribute to independent, evidence-based, reputation-enhancing and influence-building public policy that helps build a stronger Western Canada and a stronger Canada. When the West leads, Canada thrives.

Benefits

• Extended health care

Ability to commute/relocate

• Calgary, AB T2G 0X5: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person