This week’s movers on the government relations scene.
Duncan Gray has joined Proof Strategies as an account coordinator.


In a statement posted on LinkedIn Duncan announced his hiring at Proof stating, “I’m eager to translate my 6+ years of experience in the federal public service into this private sector role with Canada’s largest independent PR and marketing agency.”
Prior to joining Proof, Duncan worked as at Indigenous Services Canada for 5 years, where he rose from junior analyst in 2019 to program supervisor and communications lead in 2023.
Meanwhile, Laura Mitchell is joining Sussex Strategy Group as a director on their federal team.
In a statement on Linkedin, the firm expressed their excitement to have Laura join their team and bring her federal experience, stating that she has “helped shape major federal energy and climate initiatives and brings deep expertise in government relations, policy development, and stakeholder engagement across Canada and internationally.”


In her own post on LinkedIn, Laura stated, “it was important to me that I find ways to continue to make a meaningful contribution to the public good, and support those who strive to make a difference – especially those working to make our economy, environment, and communities stronger, more sustainable, and more resilient in the face of unprecedented challenges and uncertainty.”
Prior to joining Sussex, Laura was deputy chief of staff and director of international affairs in the office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
Finally, Crestview Strategy has brought on board Heidi Bonnell as a senior advisor.
In a press release shared with iPolitics, Crestview Strategy expressed their excitement for Heidi’s arrival, saying it “strengthens Crestview’s senior counsel capabilities across high-takes government relations and stakeholder engagement work where timing, relationships and credibility are paramount.
“Our clients will benefit from not only practical guidance on complex transactions and broader regulatory and reputational matters, but also first-hand insight into translating regional perspectives into effective national policy strategies,” the firm said.


Heidi shared their enthusiasm, saying “I’m delighted to be joining Crestview at a moment when trusted public affairs counsel matters for businesses, communities and institutions across Canada now, more than ever. I look forward to working with Crestview’s diverse portfolio of clients to shape practical strategies that deliver wins and produce real results.” Before joining Crestview, Heidi was the VP of federal government affairs with Rogers for 19 years, bringing with her a wealth of federal affairs experience.
Please send your tips about people in the government relations scene on the move to [email protected].






