Manager, Policy and Research (Business Administration, BBA)

Jonathan Champagne, Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation

By: Vera Cotturo, Career Centre Peer

Jonathan Champagne graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Business Administration program. During his time at Laurier, he was deeply involved in student leadership, serving on the Board of Directors of WLU Students’ Union and First Year Council. After completing his undergraduate studies, Jonathan pursued a Master's in Public Administration at Queen’s University. Reflecting on his unique academic background, Jonathan noted, "It was a really interesting combination of having a business undergrad alongside a policy degree. In fact, I was the only one in my program at Queen's who had a business/commerce background." This blend of business and policy expertise laid the foundation for his career in the public sector.

Jonathan currently serves as a Manager in Policy and Research at the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC), a Crown corporation that operates at arm’s length from the federal government. CDIC plays a crucial role in maintaining financial stability by protecting depositors in the event of a bank failure. In his role, Jonathan analyzes Canada’s resolution and deposition insurance framework to help determine gaps and risks, while supporting policy development to contribute to confidence in Canada’s financial system. His work requires strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of financial legislation and regulations, and the ability to assess complex economic and policy challenges. Jonathan's team also collaborates closely with other federal financial regulators to stay ahead of emerging financial trends, such as fintech and digital currencies, ensuring that the framework adapts to new financial developments while continuing to protect Canadians.

Prior to working for CDIC, Jonathan spent four years with the Bank of Canada working on policy related to the future of money, and five years with federal Department of Finance working on a variety of issues ranging from anti-money laundering to retirement income security.

A typical career path in policy analysis begins with entry-level (often through co-ops or student work programs) research or policy support roles before advancing to positions such as Senior Policy Analyst or Policy Advisor. Analysts may specialize in areas such as economic policy, social policy, or international relations, depending on their interests. Many professionals pursue graduate studies, such as a master's in public policy or public administration, to enhance their expertise and career prospects.

Jonathan emphasizes the importance of building a strong network and gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or student leadership roles. He credits his involvement in student government and advocacy work for developing the skills that helped him succeed in his field. His advice to students interested in policy work is to stay informed about current events, refine their research and writing skills, and seek mentorship opportunities.

For those considering a career in policy analysis, Jonathan highlights the need to be adaptable, detail-oriented, and proactive in understanding the policy-making process. He encourages students to explore opportunities not just in government, but also in think tanks and non-profit organizations, where they can gain diverse perspectives on policy development.

Jonathan finds his work fulfilling, knowing that his contributions help shape policies that impact communities across Canada. He appreciates the challenge of addressing complex policy issues and enjoys being part of a dynamic and evolving field. His journey demonstrates how combining academic knowledge with practical experience can lead to a meaningful and impactful career.