Michael Southern, M.A.
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Michael Southern, M.A. Email & Phone Number

Dynamic Bilingual Strategist | Trusted Advisor & Mentor to Executives | Expert in Communications & Government Relations | Thrives in Fast-paced Environments
Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada 10 work roles 6 schools
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Dynamic Bilingual Strategist | Trusted Advisor & Mentor to Executives | Expert in Communications & Government Relations | Thrives in Fast-paced Environments
Location
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

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Michael Southern, M.A. is listed as Dynamic Bilingual Strategist | Trusted Advisor & Mentor to Executives | Expert in Communications & Government Relations | Thrives in Fast-paced Environments based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. AeroLeads shows a matched LinkedIn profile for Michael Southern, M.A..

Michael Southern, M.A. previously worked as Director, Communications (Downstream) at Suncor and Director, Communications & Stakeholder Relations (Downstream) at Suncor. Michael Southern, M.A. holds Suncor In-House Leadership Experience, Organizational Leadership from Harvard Business School.

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About Michael Southern, M.A.

Drawing from three decades of diverse experience across political corridors and corporate boardrooms, I bring a wealth of expertise in navigating intricate landscapes with finesse and strategic acumen. My career has been marked by a demonstrated ability to excel in communications planning, stakeholder relations, and government advocacy, consistently delivering results in high-pressure, business-critical scenarios. As a recognized leader and trusted advisor, I have provided invaluable support to executives, offering strategic guidance and actionable insights to inform their decision-making and drive organizational success.For nearly 20 years at Suncor Energy I made positive contributions to numerous business-critical and transformative initiatives. As Director of Communications, I led a diverse team in fostering a culture of safety and collaboration within Suncor's Downstream business unit, orchestrating innovative strategies that aligned with the company’s overarching business objectives.Amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, I spearheaded comprehensive communication strategies, ensuring clarity and cohesion across internal and external stakeholders. Simultaneously, I led communications efforts to support a seamless relocation of Suncor’s Downstream head office from Mississauga, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta. These two significant projects represent the pinnacle of my time at Suncor, showcasing my adeptness at navigating complex situations and delivering tangible results in challenging circumstances.In past government relations roles, whether at Suncor or Hill + Knowlton before that, I demonstrated my ability to advocate for the interests of my company or client at provincial and federal levels with finesse and integrity, highlighting my proficiency in navigating the intersection of business and public policy.My career journey, enriched by diverse roles including positions in public affairs and academia, reflects my unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and impactful leadership. As I transition into retirement, my passion for championing and shaping future leaders remains steadfast. I am dedicated to driving positive change and fostering collaboration within dynamic organizational settings, ensuring that my legacy of inspiring and empowering the next generation of leaders endures.Let's connect to explore opportunities for collaboration or share insights on navigating the ever-evolving landscapes of business and public policy.

10 roles · 35 years

Michael Southern, M.A. work experience

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Director, Communications (Downstream)

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

I led a team of professional communicators in support of Suncor’s Downstream business, which consists of: refining, sales & marketing (under the Petro-Canada brand), mid-stream logistics, supply, trading & optimization and low-carbon energy development. This work included the development and execution of communications strategies to support various operations across Canada and the United States; and, active stewardship of Suncor’s reputation in those communities where it operates.Leading a geographically diverse team across a portfolio of operating assets demanded a strong horizontal leadership style to maintain and grow networks; to emulate Suncor’s values including safety above all else; and, to inspire others to work collaboratively toward the development of energy resources.

Jun 2021 - Jul 2023

Director, Communications & Stakeholder Relations (Downstream)

Suncor

Mississauga, Ontario

Feb 2020 - Jun 2021

Director, Government Relations

Mississauga, Ontiaro

Jul 2019 - Feb 2020

Manager, Government Relations

Mississauga, Ontario

Mar 2014 - Jun 2019

Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Relations (Rack Back & Renewable Energy)

Mississauga, Ontario.

Jan 2012 - Mar 2014

Senior Advisor, Communications & Stakeholder Relations (Refining & Marketing)

Aug 2009 - Jan 2012

Senior Advisor, Downstream Communications & Government Relations

Sep 2005 - Jul 2009

Account Director

Hill & Knowlton Canada

Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

As part of the public affairs practice in one of Canada's largest communications consultancies, I provided strategic advice to a variety of clients on government relations and other strategic communications needs.In November 2002, I was invited to join the national crisis communications team, providing elite communications support to clients in critical situations. In addition to support at times of genuine crisis, responsibilities also included the development of corporate crisis communications protocols and expert communications training.

Jun 2001 - Sep 2005

Special Assistant To The Minister Of Multiculturalism And Citizenship

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

As a member of the minister's exempt staff, I provided support and strategic advice on a variety of departmental and political issues.

1992 - 1993 ~1 yr
6 education records

Michael Southern, M.A. education

Connect Leadership Program

Harvard Business Publishing - Corporate Learning

Çertificat Elémentaire De Français Pratique, French Language And Literature

Alliance Française
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What is Michael Southern, M.A.'s role at their current company?

Michael Southern, M.A. is listed as Dynamic Bilingual Strategist | Trusted Advisor & Mentor to Executives | Expert in Communications & Government Relations | Thrives in Fast-paced Environments.

Where is Michael Southern, M.A. based?

Michael Southern, M.A. is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

What companies has Michael Southern, M.A. worked for?

Michael Southern, M.A. has worked for Suncor, Suncor Energy, Suncor Energy Inc., Petro-Canada, and University Of Western Ontario.

How can I contact Michael Southern, M.A.?

You can use AeroLeads to view verified contact signals for Michael Southern, M.A., including work email, phone, and LinkedIn data when available.

What schools did Michael Southern, M.A. attend?

Michael Southern, M.A. holds Suncor In-House Leadership Experience, Organizational Leadership from Harvard Business School.

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