Alex Piccini has been promoted to manager of government and stakeholder relations at the Electrical Safety Authority.

“Every new electrical connection, every new technology, and every new demand on our grid needs to be built on a foundation of public safety. I am looking forward to working with our incredible ESA team, safety partners and decision makers to help enable a safe, strong electrified future that protects Ontario.” said Alex in a statement made on LinkedIn.

Alex has been with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) since July of 2025, where he started as a stakeholder advisor. Prior to joining the ESA, he served as an administration officer with the Canadian Armed Forces and holding the rank of Lieutenant, a position he held for 7 years, starting in November of 2019. During that same timeframe, he also held the position of manager of government relations with the Ontario Home Builders’ Association, from January 2020 until September of 2023, when he was promoted to director of public policy and government relations.

NATIONAL Public Relations has announced that Vasken Vosguian is joining the firm as the director of their government relations and public affairs team in Montreal.

“Throughout his career, Vasken has developed a deep understanding of the dynamics shaping politics in Quebec and across Canada. His experience, judgement and ability to navigate complex issues will be valuable assets to our clients and our teams. His arrival further strengthens our ability to advise organizations facing an evolving political and economic landscape.” said Martin Daraiche, President and Managing Partner of NATIONAL Public Relations

Vasken brings with him a wealth of government experience, holding positions in a number of ministerial offices. Most recently, he served in the office of the Minister of Transport, beginning as a director of cabinet affairs, before moving to deputy chief of staff in March of 2024, then finally chief of staff. Prior to that, he was director of parliamentary affairs in the office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, serving from November 2021 until Sepetember 2023.

Chery Oates is returning to GT as a principal.

“I’m coming back to GT with a renewed appreciation for how quickly the landscape is moving and how important it is for organizations to understand where government is going before decisions are made. I’m also very happy to be coming home to a firm and a team I love working with. I’ll be working with clients across Canada on government relations, public affairs and strategy, with a particular focus on Western Canada.” Cheryl said in a statement on LinkedIn.

Cheryl stepped away from GT temporarily to serve as chief of staff to the premier of British Columbia. During this period, she oversaw the government’s political and strategic agenda, working closely with Cabinet, senior government officials and external partners on major economic, policy and intergovernmental priorities. She rejoins the firm at a crucial time, as trade talks between Canada and the U.S. stall and clients look to the government for support.

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Please send your tips about people in the government relations scene on the move to [email protected].