Christopher Braeuel
MA in Public Administration (2000)
- What field of work are you in, and what duties are required in your position?
I’m an international development practitioner and leader with over 18 years’ experience in multilateral negotiations, global project/program management, and organizational stewardship in both the public and not-for-profit sectors. Some of the key responsibilities in my position(s) include/have included national representation in UN and other international fora, conceptualization and management of bilateral poverty-reduction initiatives, contract negotiations and management, project partnership development, stakeholder relations management, and diplomacy. Success in this field of work relies significantly on strong organizational and interpersonal skills both in domestic and foreign settings, a natural desire and aptitude for learning languages, interest in other cultures and ways of living/thinking, excellent oral and written communication skills, the ability to adapt quickly and comfortably to changing circumstances, and patience and resilience among other important skills and attributes.
- What challenges did you face when looking for work after graduating?
One of the biggest challenges I faced upon graduation was deciding among various job opportunities. Even when you prioritize your preferences, the timing doesn’t always work in your favour so you may agree to choice 2 or 3 because there are no firm offers or guarantees of choice 1 at that moment, or you are simply under pressure to decide sooner than later. If you accept option 2 or 3, work with the same enthusiasm as if it were your first choice. If you decline option 2 or 3 in hopes that your top choice will eventually materialize, there is always the risk that it won’t in the short-term and you will have missed out on the other opportunities in the process. It’s good to take risks so long as you’re willing to accept the outcomes and adapt.
- How did you arrive at your current position?
As the Founder and President of CHB International Associates, an independent international affairs and development consultancy formed in 2017, my career journey so far has been long, diverse and fulfilling. Since my career launched at the turn of the millennium when I was recruited by the federal government, I’ve gained valuable experience on key national priorities such as the creation of the Canada Research Chairs program and Public Health Agency of Canada; I’ve represented Canada as a negotiator and national focal point on delegations to key United Nations conventions; and I’ve served abroad leading and overseeing a major basic education development program in Afghanistan, among other challenging assignments. Having continued with the non-profit sector, I lead key projects and programs dedicated to improving the status and livelihoods of children, youth and women in Tanzania and Nigeria. Since I’ve settled back in Canada with my family and established my consultancy, and having cultivated a diverse network of international professionals over the years, I continue supporting various internationally-focused organizations with their key priorities and initiatives. I also enjoy teaching and engaging in community charitable causes as a volunteer Board member, fundraiser and musician. It is the famous quote by Muhammad Ali that continues to inspire me each day: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”
- What advice would you give to a graduate student looking to follow a career path similar to yours?
Know yourself well (your skills, values and interests), have clear goals and know the challenges and opportunities of working in international development and humanitarian affairs. Identify a few key mentors early on who work in different sectors of international affairs (government, non-profit sector, and private consultancies) so you have a well-rounded understanding of the pros and cons of each and which track might be best to start with or to pursue as a career. International development and humanitarian work depends on highly skilled professionals so the more you specialize in a particular domain over time and according to your interests (i.e. health, education, environment, child protection, conflict management, etc.), the better. Through specialization you will cultivate a valuable niche, develop a strong reputation and be sought after within your global network. It can also be advantageous to focus your experience regionally (i.e. focus on South East Asia or West Africa, for example). Be prepared that your life circumstances, priorities and values will likely evolve over time and this will have an impact on your international career choices. Typically, depending on your future plans, it is best to take on physically demanding, high-risk, overseas assignments when you are younger and fully mobile. This will accelerate your skill development and secure a valuable base of experience on which to grow. Building a solid foundation is imperative. Lastly, while rich and rewarding, an international career can be emotionally taxing at times. You will be involved in high profile, life changing work but will also be exposed to the darker sides of humanity in the process (devastating poverty, inequality, violence and conflict). Maintaining a positive spirit and mature attitude will carry you through the tough times and motivate you to continue working for the cause of good.
Christopher Braeuel has been involved with Carleton’s Alumni Mentoring program. The Alumni Mentors program pairs motivated upper-year students and recent graduates with an alumni mentor. Mentors are established professionals who help students and recent graduates develop skills for the workplace and expand their professional networks.