Thomas Townsend Email & Phone Number

Ottawa, On, Ca

Ottawa, Canada Area

Conducting research in comparative policy analysis, governance mechanisms that support learning, and the application of principles of complexity science in public policy

Leads the federal government's medium-term policy research function. Provides support through identification of emerging policy issues and research to five Deputy Minister Policy Committees.Undertakes specific policy research in areas of policy priority affecting several federal departments such as climate change adaptation, economic progress, management of emerging social risks.Promotes the Initiative and the work of its researchersReports to a committee of seven Deputy Ministers that provides the general guidance for the work of the initiativeProduces research papers, policy briefs and writes reports for publicationOversees the editorial work for all research reports; Senior

Senior Canadian Official representing the federal government to the European Union in matters related to health, social development, education and employment. Negotiated agreements and treaties including student mobility agreements. Established and supported a transatlantic policy exchange and application of the Open Method of Coordination to specific policy areas

2003]Developed a strategy to ensure the ongoing funding of critical surveys including those that support Higher Education Research. Oversaw sensitive research in areas affecting the Government's position on labour market policy, new ways of measuring poverty, and workplace training and education.

Established a new organization, grouping federal programs and activities related to post secondary education and continuous learning. Was the principle Departmental representative for post secondary education working with the Parliamentary Committee on Human Resources. Established close collaborative working relationships with the Council of Ministers of Education, and national associations of universities (AUCC), colleges (ACCC), private trainers and student groups. Successfully conducted on behalf of the Minister, special negotiations with the Province of Quebec regarding the implementation of a new federally created foundation. Guided the transition of the Canada Student Loan program to direct loans operation from policy through implementation.

Worked with a private sector board to establish a vision to make the prison industries program a real work experience and become revenue dependent. Led its 350 employees through the transition from a tax-funded activity to an enterprise of five distinct business units including agriproducts, construction, service, textile and manufacturing enterprises. Recruited a board of industry, labour and government leaders committed to the concept of prisoner work programs. Increased business volume to $49 million in 1995, up from $27 million

Led team in the development and implementation of programs designed to assist offenders become law-abiding citizens. Innovations included establishing integrated academic programs and the re-orientation of these programs to address literacy needs of inmates.

Certificate In Leadership, Organizational Leadership

Master'S, Economics

Batchelors, Economics