Summer Student - Strategy, Public Affairs and Arts Engagement

The summer student will support the Strategy, Public Affairs and Arts Engagement (SPAAE) Division by conducting an environmental scan and analysis of international engagement strategies, programs, initiatives and trends relevant to Canadian artists and arts organizations. This work will contribute to the redesign of the Canada Council for the Arts’ international engagement strategy and help situate the Council’s activities within a broader federal and sectoral ecosystem that includes for instance Global Affairs Canada, Canadian Heritage, Crown corporations, arm’s length cultural agencies, and national service organizations.

The student will help build a consolidated, evidence-based understanding of how Canadian institutions approach international engagement, funding, and cultural diplomacy. Their work will directly contribute to inform strategic planning, partnership development, and future investments in international programs.

Under the direct supervision of the Senior Strategic Advisor, Strategy, Public Affairs and Arts Engagement, the student will:

• Conduct research and mapping of federal, provincial, and arts sector international engagement mandates, frameworks and strategies, including those related to creative industries.
• Map international programs and funding mechanisms across Global Affairs Canada, Canadian Heritage, relevant Crown corporations, the Canada Council, and CPAF member organizations.
• Review existing Canada Council data on international activities (e.g., Arts Abroad, Partnerships, CCUNESCO and Prizes) to identify trends, reach, participation patterns, and areas of unmet need in international support, as well as areas where synergy can be found.
• Map the Council’s participation in international forums and networks related to arts funding and multi‑nation spaces.
• Synthesize findings into clear, shareable formats for internal use.
• Prepare a written environmental scan and a concise briefing package to support senior management and cross‑divisional discussions.

• Develop practical skills in policy research, qualitative analysis, and data interpretation in an arts funding and public policy environment.
• Gain exposure to the Council’s mandate, governance context, and corporate decision‑making processes.
• Build knowledge of international cultural policy and public arts funding, and how support to arts sector and creative industries objectives and impact intersect with broader foreign policy priorities.
• Strengthen professional competencies such as synthesis, briefing, and written communication for senior level and interdepartmental audiences.
• Benefit from mentorship and collaboration within a strategic, multidisciplinary team, supporting career development in public service, cultural policy, or the arts and creative industries.

This program is intended for students. To be considered, you must:

• Currently be enrolled as a full‑time student at a recognized post‑secondary institution;
• Be enrolled as a part‑time or full‑time student in the next academic year (proof will be required)
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a student with a valid study permit (for international students);
• Meet the basic requirements of the positions.

The duration of employment for the Summer Student Program is sixteen (16) weeks. Students will start work on May 11, 2026.

The student should be enrolled in one of the following:

• A Master’s or PhD program
• Analysis, Research Experience
• Organizational skills, attention to details
• Communications, autonomy, judgement
• Writing skills

This position requires the use of both official languages. The requirements in the second official language are:

• An advanced level in oral (C)
• An advanced level in reading comprehension (C)
• An advanced level in writing (C)