As a global leader in ocean research, the Ocean Frontier Institute (OFI) delivers solutions for ocean-related challenges regionally, nationally, and internationally. This includes working with policymakers and government officials to effect change.
These outreach efforts are set to be energized with Jason Rondeau joining OFI as the new director of government relations.
With demonstrated experience working in government and policy, Rondeau has helped to advance the Government of Canada's priorities related to environmental conservation, economic development, and public infrastructure.
Most recently, he served as the director of policy for the federal minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. In this role, he oversaw all official policy advice to the minister, and led a team of advisors working to advance the Minister’s mandate commitments relating to protecting Canada’s ocean ecosystems, growing a sustainable blue economy, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
“Jason is a strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and an innovative mindset,” says Dr. Anya Waite, OFI’s chief executive officer and scientific director.
“I’m delighted to have him join our team and to advance our strategic initiatives and research across government – both in Canada and internationally.”
With several large-scale initiatives underway at OFI, Rondeau’s priorities include:
- Maximizing the outcomes of the Transforming Climate Action research program and the Safe and Sustainable Development of the Ocean Frontier research program (both of which are funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund)
- Advancing the North Atlantic Carbon Observatory as a flagship multi-national ocean-climate solution
- Exploring policy and regulatory barriers for the potential of responsible marine carbon dioxide removal solutions
- Advancing opportunities for OFI’s biodiversity and bioresources research to inform government questions and strategies
“OFI is bringing together leading researchers to tackle critical ocean challenges, including achieving net-zero,” says Rondeau, who is based in Ottawa, Ontario.
“This work is crucial for Canada to build a greener economy and a more sustainable future, and I’m very excited to be joining this extraordinary team to help strengthen and expand OFI’s partnerships.”
Learn more about Jason Rondeau.
Media inquiries
Greg Hanna
Manager, communications and public relations
greg.hanna@dal.ca
867-444-8850
