Matthew Burbidge
Founder, Fractal5 Solutions
| Degrees: | MPM/12 |
Matthew Burbidge is a strategic advisor, communications expert, and AI-driven intelligence consultant with extensive experience at the intersection of public policy, governance, and emerging technologies. His career has been defined by a commitment to systems thinking, institutional leadership, and technological foresight, shaping the future of political strategy, public engagement, and executive decision-making.
He began his career in the arts and cultural sector as an Art Preservationist and Picture Framer, where he developed a strong foundation in precision, composition, and legacy-building. This experience informed his transition into the public sector, where he quickly advanced in strategic communications and policy leadership.
From 2008 to 2012, he served as a Policy Analyst and Expenditure Analyst at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, specializing in federal expenditure policy, fiscal oversight, and governance frameworks. In 2012, he worked as a Special Assistant in the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada, refining his expertise in government relations, institutional power structures, and high-level executive decision-making.
Matthew transitioned to university administration, serving as the Director of Major & Planned Gifts at the University of Alberta, where he led fundraising strategy, institutional advancement, and donor relations to secure long-term investment in academic and research initiatives.
His career expanded into civic leadership and political engagement, taking on roles as the Director of Civics for the Blackmud Creek Community League and as a Senior Outreach Officer for the Leader of the Official Opposition in Alberta. In these roles, he was responsible for stakeholder relations, political strategy, and public policy advocacy.
In 2015, he transitioned to the non-profit sector, serving as Director of Communications & Marketing at E4C, a leading organization focused on poverty reduction and social impact. From 2017 to 2020, he served as Director of Communications & Marketing at the Excel Society, overseeing communications strategy, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement for one of Canada’s largest service providers for individuals with complex needs.
His expertise in corporate and clinical communications deepened at Island Health, where he played a key role in regional healthcare communications, primary care partnerships, and strategic messaging across British Columbia.
As the Founder of Fractal5 Solutions, Matthew leads a boutique consultancy specializing in AI-powered intelligence, digital media strategy, election analysis, and strategic communications. His firm integrates government affairs, political consulting, and AI-driven content automation into a high-impact system for influence and execution.
He is known for his ability to optimize political intelligence, develop high-stakes strategic frameworks, and drive transformative outcomes. His work reflects a rigorous, research-driven approach, blending data analytics, policy expertise, and strategic foresight to help clients navigate complexity and achieve lasting impact.
Matthew holds a Master of Public Administration from Queen’s University and a Master of Political Management from Carleton University. His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Communications & Culture (Honours) with a specialization in Canadian Studies from the University of Calgary.
Follow on Substack: https://matthewburbidge.substack.com/
Last Revision: March 2025